"Forest Therapy and Mindfulness for Stress Reduction and Well-being in Highly Sensitive Persons (… (NCT07183917) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
"Forest Therapy and Mindfulness for Stress Reduction and Well-being in Highly Sensitive Persons (Pilot RCT)"
Spain131 participantsStarted 2025-01-13
Plain-language summary
This study aims to evaluate the effects of Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Forest Medicine interventions on psychological well-being, stress reduction, and overall health outcomes in adults. Shinrin-Yoku, originated in Japan, is a nature-based practice that involves mindful immersion in forest environments. The intervention combines exposure to natural ecosystems with evidence-based techniques such as mindfulness and guided relaxation.
Participants will be guided through structured sessions in natural forest settings to assess changes in stress biomarkers, emotional regulation, sleep quality, and quality of life. The study is designed as a non-pharmacological, non-invasive intervention, focusing on promoting mental health and preventive medicine.
The findings are expected to provide evidence on the benefits of Forest Medicine as a complementary health approach and contribute to the development of international standards for nature-based therapies.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adults aged 18 to 65 years.
* Self-identified as Highly Sensitive Person (HSP) with a score ≥70 on the Highly Sensitive Person Scale (HSP-SC).
* Able to attend weekly sessions for 8 consecutive weeks.
* Willing to provide written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Current diagnosis of severe psychiatric disorder (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder not stabilized).
* Current substance abuse or dependence.
* Severe cardiovascular, respiratory, or mobility limitations preventing safe participation in outdoor walking or relaxation exercises.
* Participation in another clinical intervention study during the same period.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in Perceived Stress (PSS-10)
Timeframe: Baseline and 8 weeks (end of intervention)