With all the turbulence going on in our world today – fast-changing technologies, disastrous climate events, terrorism, pandemics and a variety of wars – how can we enjoy a more positive quality-of-life experience? Well, Gaia has actually provided a low-cost remedy … taking a walk in the woods.
I recall an article about this phenomenon’s incredible healing powers. The Japanese call it “Forest Bathing.” And the research reported in this article describes the same outcome. High on improved quality-of-life, low on cost.
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Woodland walks cut anxiety, study finds
Positive.news
May 4, 2026
Research shows self-led woodland trails can
cut anxiety and strengthen people’s connection
Participants who followed self-led woodland wellbeing trails reported a 38% drop in rumination, a 31% reduction in anxiety and a 20% rise in feelings of social connection, according to research examining Forestry England’s nature-based mental health programme.
The trails, designed to encourage people to slow down and engage more deeply with the natural world, are now installed at 18 Forestry England sites across the country. They feature simple prompts inviting walkers to pause, notice their surroundings and reflect on their relationship with nature.
The idea grew from a small moment during the Covid pandemic. As the UK emerged from lockdowns, Ellen Devine, wellbeing programme manager at Forestry England, came across a handwritten chalkboard sign at Westonbirt Arboretum carrying a message for people walking among the trees. Devine recalls …
“It said something along the lines of, ‘we
can’t be together at the moment because
of the Covid restrictions, but know that
you’re not alone, and you’re always
welcome here amongst the trees’.
“I was having quite a difficult time, and
it made me feel that little bit better.”
The moment inspired a series of self-led well-being trails launched in 2023. Designed to prompt people to slow down and reflect, the routes feature themed panels offering woodland facts, quotations and simple mindfulness activities.
To shape them, Devine worked with the University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness Research Group, alongside charities including Mind and Samaritans.
Forest trails that allow people to slow down and connect with nature have been proven to improve mental and physical wellbeing. Devine added …
“It shows that quality engagement with nature
matters more than just quantity. It’s not just
about getting people into forests, it’s about
supporting them to build that emotional
connection, which in turn benefits
their own health and wellbeing.”
The evaluation, led by Dr. Carly Butler, found that even a single visit to a wellbeing trail produced measurable effects. Participants reported reduced rumination and anxiety after completing the walks, alongside a stronger sense of social connection.
In a world where people increasingly struggle with loneliness or social isolation, the fact that this intervention could connect people – not only with nature but also with other people – is really exciting,
Quality engagement with nature matters more than just quantity
Devine says …
“I think that’s one of the brilliant things about nature.
You can find it anywhere. If we can think about ways
for people to connect with nature as they go about
their daily lives, then yes, that’s absolutely
something we should be doing.”
Interest in nature-based wellbeing is growing more widely. More than 100 doctors and NHS practitioners in the West Midlands are now prescribing nature walks as part of social prescribing schemes designed to support people experiencing stress, loneliness or mild mental health challenges.
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Every time I hear of an instance of someone taking regular walks in a forest, I ask why they’re doing it – as many have time-consuming job demands. I consistently hear responses that include better job performance, and greater satisfaction and outcomes with their job. Here’s another discovery …
Each of our Garden Atrium homes has a lush garden in a large atrium space, at the center of the home. It’s far more than a potted geranium. The skylight-covered atrium is nearly 800 sq. ft. While chair and table arrangements vary with each homeowner’s preferences, the plants – which include tropical birds of paradise with leaves climbing to 15 feet high – create an energy field with the same relaxing, stress-reducing outcome as a woodland.
The atriums’ broad-leafed plants cut CO2 to 80% of outside air. Oxygen levels measure three to four times higher than outside air. But the surprise we hadn’t expected: they also created a calming energy field, which says …
“You can get the same physical and emotional
benefits without having to find and travel to a
woodland trail if a trail isn’t near your home.”
With or without a Garden Atrium, these woodland walks add a lot to our quality-of-life experience in these turbulent times. Adding D’s comments …
“Walking amongst trees is an experience that allows trees to absorb frustrations, anger, and negative thoughts; it leaves humans with the sense of joy, lightness and a release. It is a beautiful gift from the forest to any individual who chooses to walk amongst the trees.
“If done on a regular basis, it creates a calmness that is visible to all. We hope that everyone can avail themselves of a forest walk.
“If perchance you’re in a place that is not a forest, but if there is a single tree, always remember that you can put your back to the tree, touching it, and it will calm you down; the tree will absorb the negative emotions you’re feeling.”
