Forest therapy significantly benefits the mental health of pregnant women and enhances their attachment to their unborn children. (Image courtesy of the Korea Forest Service)
DAEJEON, Jan. 8 (Korea Bizwire) — A recent study has revealed that forest therapy significantly benefits the mental health of pregnant women and enhances their attachment to their unborn children.
The Korea Forest Welfare Institute (KFWI), under the Korea Forest Service, announced on January 17 the results of its Healthy Birth, Happy Family initiative, launched in 2024 to address the nation’s low birthrate.
The program utilized forest healing sessions, which were found to reduce stress and foster stronger emotional bonds between expectant mothers, their partners, and their unborn children.
Data collected from 120 pregnant participants showed a notable improvement in mother-fetus attachment scores, which rose from 72.89 to 76.90, while maternal stress levels decreased significantly, dropping from 32.09 to 23.78. Among 81 fathers-to-be who participated, attachment scores with their unborn children increased from 87.58 to 94.04.
KFWI President Nam Tae-heon stated, “This research confirms the scientific benefits of forest therapy, including reduced stress and improved attachment between parents and their unborn children. We plan to expand forest healing programs for expectant mothers and families this year.”
The findings underscore the potential of forest-based interventions to support mental well-being during pregnancy, offering a natural and effective way to address prenatal stress and strengthen family bonds.
Cypress forest at Chorongyi Doongji village, Gapyeong-gun, Gyeonggi-do (Image courtesy of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs)
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
