An Appraisal of the Influence and Healing Effect of a Forest Environment on Neuroticism

Abstract

A forest bathing experiment was conducted on 33 male students. They were divided into three groups: the Higher Group (12), the Lower Group (14), and the Other Group (7), according to their degree of neuroticism and anxiety. Recognition, awareness, appraisal, and the healing effects of the forest environment were examined for each group, and the results of the Higher Group and the Lower Group were compared. The Higher Group, which was in a high state of stress before the experiment, naturally appraised the forest environments as more agreeable and friendly than the Lower Group. Consequently, in the Higher Group, it was suggested that (1) feelings of anger and hostility effectively decreased in short walking activities; and (2) short viewing experiences could increase energy levels and decrease fatigue.