Virtual Reality Forest Bathing: A New Approach to Stress Relief

In recent studies, virtual reality (VR) forest bathing has emerged as a promising technique for stress relief, demonstrating significant psychological benefits even without physical exposure to natural environments. This innovative approach, building on the traditional Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, aims to recreate the calming effects of nature through immersive digital experiences. Researchers from the University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (UKE) and the Max Planck Institute for Human Development conducted a controlled study exploring the efficacy of VR forest bathing, which has implications for mental well-being, particularly in urban settings where access to nature may be limited.

The study, published in the Journal of Environmental Psychology in June 2025, involved creating a highly realistic virtual forest environment filmed in the Sonnenberg nature reserve, known for its expansive Douglas fir trees. Participants experienced this setting through a 360-degree VR video, complemented by ambient forest sounds and the scent of Douglas fir essential oils. They were subjected to a stress-inducing scenario with visual stimuli before engaging with the virtual forest, allowing researchers to measure the impact of this multisensory experience on their stress levels and mood.

Dr. Leonie Ascone, the lead author of the study, noted, "We can already say that digital nature experiences can absolutely produce an emotional effect – even if they don’t replace actual nature." The study’s findings revealed that participants who engaged with all three sensory elements—sight, sound, and smell—reported the most significant mood improvements and a heightened sense of connection to nature. In contrast, those who experienced only one sensory input demonstrated less pronounced benefits.

Simone Kühn, director of the Center for Environmental Neuroscience at the Max Planck Institute, emphasized the potential of VR nature experiences. "Especially in places with limited access to nature—such as clinics, waiting areas, or urban interiors—multisensory VR applications could support mental well-being," Kühn stated. This perspective aligns with growing evidence that nature exposure, even in virtual form, can enhance mood and cognitive functioning and potentially reduce pain in clinical settings.

Despite the positive outcomes, researchers caution that VR forest bathing is not a complete substitute for real-world nature experiences. The benefits of fresh air, physical activity, and the full spectrum of natural stimuli cannot be replicated through technology. However, for individuals confined to urban environments, hospitals, or workplaces, even brief sessions of virtual forest bathing may serve as effective tools for managing stress and enhancing mental health.

The implications of these findings extend beyond individual well-being, suggesting broader social and economic benefits. As urbanization continues to limit access to green spaces, integrating VR forest bathing into therapeutic and workplace settings could alleviate mental health burdens on a larger scale. Further research is warranted to explore the long-term effects and potential applications of this technology in diverse environments. The study's conclusions signal a noteworthy advancement in the intersection of technology and mental health, paving the way for innovative solutions to modern stressors.