Research & Writings

Academic Research

Study led by Kirsten McEwan, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby

Paper published in special issue of journal Forests on topic of Forest Bathing and Public Health by McEwan, Kirsten, Kari S. Krogh, Kim Dunlop, Mahnoor Khan, and Alyssa Krogh. 2023. “Virtual Forest Bathing Programming as Experienced by Disabled Adults with Mobility Impairments and/or Low Energy: A Qualitative Study” Forests 14, no. 5: 1033. https://doi.org/10.3390/f14051033

Read the abstract here

Although access to nature is demonstrated to benefit health and wellbeing, adults with mobility impairments and/or low energy often face barriers in accessing nature environments and nature-based programs. This study aimed to examine the experiences and impacts of virtual forest bathing by capturing the perspectives of disabled adults with mobility impairments and/or low energy. Methods: A total of 26 adults with mobility impairments provided written and spoken qualitative feedback during and following virtual forest bathing programs and 23 participants provided feedback at a one month follow-up. Virtual programs were presented online, using an accessible format, 2D videos, and images of nature accompanied by guidance led by a certified forest bathing guide and mindfulness teacher. The programs involved disabled facilitators and participants, which created a social environment of peer support. Results: Qualitative thematic analysis revealed 10 themes comprising intervention themes (virtual delivery and soothing facilitation); process themes (nature connection, relaxation, embodiment, and memories with complex emotions); and outcome themes (happiness, agency, metaphor making, and belonging). Conclusions: Virtual forest bathing may offer an effective adjunct to improve wellbeing and provide peer support for disabled adults with mobility impairments and/or low energy.

2. Study led by Kirsten McEwan, College of Health, Psychology and Social Care, University of Derby

Manuscript currently under preparation. Check out the research poster here.

Quantitative Study Summary. Paper is currently being prepared. Two groups of participants living with mobility impairment and/or severe fatigue were studied: 66 who took part in the program and 70 who were waiting to join. The results were clear—those who completed the program felt significantly better! They experienced less tension, fewer symptoms, and found themselves ruminating less. Their pain levels, for example, dropped by an impressive 23.8%. On the other hand, those still on the waitlist saw only minor improvements, with their pain reducing by just 3.6%. This study documents the significant wellbeing benefits of participating in a single 2.5 hr EcoWisdom Accessible Nature Wellbeing Program.

3. Study led by clinical psychology doctoral student Karolina Balciunaite, University of Hertfordshire, UK

Manuscript prepared and submitted for publication by Karolina Balciunaite, Stephen Pack, Kirsten McEwan, Kari Krogh and Karen Van-Biesen

Title of Study: Experiences of Change in Connectedness Through Forest Bathing Among Adults with Disabilities and/or Physical Health Difficulties

Read the abstract here

In this paper, we report the results of fifteen semi-structured online interviews that sought to explore people with disabilities’ experiences of change in connectedness to the self, others, and nature through an accessible forest bathing program conducted in participants’ homes online and in urban parks. The findings of the reflexive thematic analysis indicate an increased sense of connectedness to the self, others, and nature, as well as a universal interconnectedness and spirituality. Connectedness was considered vital for nurturing self-identity, personal development, a sense of belonging, community building, reducing isolation, and promoting environmental care. These findings are significant because they cast light on the experiences of a population that is under-represented in research, especially in qualitative literature in forest bathing, and explore experiences of connectedness in depth through forest bathing which is an under-researched area in this field. The findings advocate for incorporating accessible forest bathing programs into clinical settings, green social prescribing, and educational curricula to enhance holistic well-being and encourage a more inclusive, environmentally aware society.