Forest bathing and education: nature as a resource for wellbeing and learning

Abstract

The article highlights the importance of natural environments in mental health and education, especially in the face of increasing urbanization and decreased access to green areas. It emphasizes the potential of contact with nature, particularly through the Japanese technique of Shinrin Yoku or forest bathing, as a restorative resource for physical and mental health and an innovative pedagogical tool. The analysis is based on an experience carried out in the Bosque de Santiago, Chile, with students of Pedagogy in Basic General Education, where the benefits of natural environments were explored, such as stress reduction, improved psychological well-being and the strengthening of socio-environmental competencies. In addition, the theoretical study suggests that integrating practices such as forest bathing into the educational curriculum could promote experiential learning, sustainability, and holistic well-being. Problems such as Nature Deficit Disorder, which especially affects children in urban areas, are addressed, and research is cited that demonstrates improvements in cognitive development, reduced anxiety and more responsible attitudes towards the environment thanks to contact with green areas. In Chile, initiatives led by CONAF are promoting these practices in protected areas, although their implementation is still limited. The article concludes by underlining the need for a transversal educational approach that incorporates natural environments as an integral part of learning, aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering the connection of students with their environment, their health and the relationship with nature.