The effect of forest therapy on the mood states of young adults in Ulaanbaatar

Delgermaa Anujin, Sharavdorj Erdenechimeg 

Corresponding Author: Sharavdorj Erdenechimeg 

Department of Psychology, National University of Mongolia, Mongolia

Digital Object Identifier: 

https://doi.org/10.53468/mifyr.2023.03.04.01

Abstract— This study aimed to examine the effects of forest therapy, specifically Shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), on the mood states of young adults living in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, where environmental pollution poses ongoing concerns. The study was conducted in nearby pristine forest environments, where participants engaged in two short forest therapy
sessions held at different natural sites on separate days, allowing exposure to varied forest settings. A total of 27 young adults (11 males and 16 females) participated in the study. Mood states were assessed immediately before and after each forest therapy session using the Profile of Mood States (POMS) questionnaire, a validated psychological instrument measuring six mood dimensions: tension–anxiety, depression–dejection, confusion–bewilderment, vigor–activity, fatigue–inertia, and anger–hostility. The results showed significant and consistent improvements in participants’ mood states following forest therapy. Significant reductions were observed in four negative mood dimensions, including tension–anxiety, depression dejection, confusion–bewilderment, and anger–hostility. In contrast, no significant changes were found in the fatigue–inertia subscale, despite assessments being conducted after extended forest walks. Participants also showed a significant increase in vigor–activity, the only positive POMS subscale, reflecting enhanced energy and enthusiasm after forest exposure. Consequently, Total Mood Disturbance scores decreased significantly following participation in both forest therapy sessions. No statistically significant differences were observed between the experimental sites, suggesting that variations in environmental conditions did not substantially influence participants’ mood states. These findings indicate the potential of forest therapy as a low-cost, non-invasive, and effective nature- based intervention for improving mental health and overall well-being among young adults living in polluted urban environments such as Ulaanbaatar.

Keywords— Forest therapy, Mood states, Psychological well-being, Nature-based interventions

Article History: Received 5 November 2023, Received in revised form 7 November 2023, Accepted 29 November 2023