Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M1530

Shinrin-yoku

Shinrin-yoku
TechnicalHigh supportPhysics
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-28

CORE DEFINITION

The contemporary term and concept of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) was primarily proposed in 1982 by Tomohide Akiyama, the head of the Forestry Agency of Japan, reportedly inspired by hot spring bathing, sea bathing, and sunbathing. The term is very similar in meaning to forest therapy, referring to immersing oneself in a forest environment, sometimes with the help of professionally trained forest therapy practitioners to more fully engage the senses in experiencing the natural environment. It is said that the concept of shinrin-yoku originates from concepts such as yūgen (derived from Buddhism and Taoism, 'a profound awareness of the beauty of the world that evokes deep emotions that cannot be expressed in words'), komorebi ('sunlight filtering through the gaps between trees'), and wabi-sabi (derived from Buddhist concepts such as the Three Marks of Existence). Some clinical psychologists believe that forest therapy involves simply noticing and perceiving things rather than judging or evaluating them, and is therefore similar to mindfulness (being consciously present without judgment). Although the relevant scientific research is not yet sufficient to draw any definitive conclusions, there are some preliminary findings.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

The contemporary term and concept of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing) was primarily proposed in 1982 by Tomohide Akiyama, the head of the Forestry Agency of Japan, reportedly inspired by hot spring bathing, sea bathing, and sunbathing. The term is very similar in meaning to forest therapy, referring to immersing oneself in a forest environment, sometimes with the help of professionally trained forest therapy practitioners to more fully engage the senses in experiencing the natural environment.

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Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing): slow walking in a natural forest to achieve physical and mental recovery, lowering blood pressure and cortisol, and improving attention. Nature is healing.

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    zh.wikipedia.orghttps://zh.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E6%A3%AE%E6%9E%97%E6%B5%B4ZH · Explicit
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