Forest Therapy is a biophilic intervention that aims to enhance positive mental, physical and social  health by enhancing nature connectedness, interpersonal relationships and social cohesion.

A guided Forest Therapy walk can offer many benefits, both physically and mentally to those who tune into their senses to immerse in nature.   INFTA has listed the following direct and indirect effects: 

​

Direct Effects

• reduced blood pressure (systolic and diastolic)

• lowered pulse rate

• reduced stress hormone (cortisol) level

• reduced anxiety

• surge in the activity of cancer- and tumor-fighting blood cells (‘natural killer’ cells)

• active exposure to phytoncides which are bioactive compounds emitted by trees and plants; phytoncides have anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-viral effects

• increased happiness and positive mood

• enhanced energy level

• better concentration

​

Indirect Effects

• increased overall fitness level

• improved immune system

• weight loss

• reduced risk of obesity

• reduced risk of heart and lung diseases

• decrease in anxiety

• reduced risk of getting depressed

• less likelihood of feeling stressed in typical day-to-day situations

• better and more regular sleep

• more positive mood and motivation (meaning: less mood-swings)

• enhanced ability to focus

• higher self-confidence and a more stable personality