A Qualitative Study Comparing Mindfulness and Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing): Practitioners’ Perspectives

The boundary between mindfulness and forest bathing, two conceptually related therapies, is unclear. Accordingly, this study reports the strengths challenges, similarities differences, barriers facilitators for both. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven trained experienced practitioners of both bathing. Reflexive thematic analysis revealed four main themes: (i) differences approaches; (ii) benefits bathing; (iii) biophilia through (iv) inward versus outward attentional focus as a distinction approaches. Both practices found to benefit well-being, but key mindfulness. For vulnerable groups experiencing mental health challenges or difficulties achieving meditative state, may introduce well-being risks. By offering gentler, more intuitive approach that encourages focus, bathing was overcome barrier. Forest suitable all groups, adaptations are recommended those expressing fear discomfort in forested environments. findings inform how position approaches practice, first step towards social prescribing recommendations. Wider implications concern bathing’s potential impact environmental well-being. Future research must garner comparative data, involve young people, explore feasibility prescription.