Have you ever wandered into a forest and felt an inexplicable sense of peace wash over you? That feeling of calm and tranquility isn’t just a figment of your imagination; it’s backed by science. The study, “The Physiological and Psychological Effects Benefits of Forest Therapy (FT) on Tourists in the Kranjska Gora Destination”1 by Darija Cvikl, Cvetka Avguštin, and Samo Kreft, conducted in Slovenia, explored the effects of forest therapy on tourists. In this exploration, 50 tourists visiting the picturesque Kranjska Gora region experienced forest bathing with four ANFT-certified nature therapy guides on an unforgettable forest therapy journey.
The findings of this research continues to confirm the health benefits that forest therapy imparts to those who experience it.
The Research:
The study, conducted in 2021 by Darija Cvikl, Cvetka Avguštin, and Samo Kreft of Slovenia, set out to uncover the effects of forest therapy on tourists. It engaged 50 tourists visiting the region who embarked on a forest therapy journey with four ANFT certified nature therapy guides.
This unique protocol carefully guided participants through the forest while keeping a close eye on both physiological stress markers and psychological responses.
Positive Outcomes:
The results of this research unearthed a treasure trove of positive effects and health benefits for these tourists who engaged in forest therapy:
1. Stress Reduction: One of the most compelling findings was the significant decrease in physiological stress markers. Heart rates dropped, cortisol levels diminished, and participants reported feeling notably less tense. In a world filled with everyday stressors, this discovery alone is a breath of fresh air.
2. Enhanced Well-being: Not only did participants feel less stressed, but they also reported heightened well-being. Happiness and relaxation levels soared, demonstrating that nature has a remarkable ability to restore emotional balance.
3. Destination Management: The implications of this study reach far beyond the individual experience. Destination managers and tour guides can draw on these findings to enhance the tourist experience by creating nature-based activities that prioritize well-being.
4. Forest Therapy Tourism: The study illuminates the path towards developing forest therapy tourism activities. Imagine offering travelers a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature, relieving stress, and rejuvenating their minds and bodies.
5. Well-being Forest Tourism: A new dimension of tourism is emerging – well-being forest tourism. It enables tourists to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life and immerse themselves in nature’s embrace.
Learning to Guide Nature Therapy Walks:
Do you find yourself drawn to the idea of helping others experience the profound benefits of forest therapy? Consider training as a nature therapy guide. The Association of Nature and Forest Therapy is a fantastic resource for those looking to explore this path. By becoming a certified guide, you can lead individuals through immersive forest therapy experiences, enabling them to reap the rewards of nature’s healing embrace.
In Conclusion:
The research conducted in Kranjska Gora is a testament to the incredible power of nature. It’s a reminder that, amid our busy lives, taking a moment to connect with the natural world can lead to remarkable improvements in our physical and mental well-being. So, next time you plan a getaway, consider wandering into the woods for your very own forest therapy. And if you’re inspired to guide others on this journey, know that the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy is there to help you become a steward of well-being in the great outdoors.
1. Link to article referenced in the post – https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4907/13/10/1670