The doctoral research paper titled "Investigating the impact of nature-based physical activities, such as forest bathing and wilderness exploration, on mental health and well-being" investigates the impact of nature-based physical activities, specifically forest bathing and wilderness exploration, on mental health and well-being. Drawing upon a mixed-methods approach, the study examines the relationship between engagement in nature-based activities and various mental health outcomes, utilizing both quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to provide a comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon.

The introduction contextualizes the research within the broader discourse on the connection between nature and human health, highlighting the growing interest in nature-based interventions for promoting mental well-being. Forest bathing, rooted in Japanese tradition, and wilderness exploration offer promising avenues for individuals to immerse themselves in natural environments and reap therapeutic benefits.

The methodology outlines a sequential mixed-methods design, beginning with a cross-sectional quantitative survey administered to a diverse sample of participants. Validated measures of mental health, demographic information, and frequency of nature-based activity engagement are collected and analyzed using statistical techniques including regression analysis. Subsequently, qualitative semi-structured interviews are conducted to explore participants? lived experiences and perceptions regarding nature-based activities and their impact on mental well-being. Thematic analysis is employed to identify key themes and patterns in the qualitative data.

The results of the study reveal significant associations between participation in nature-based activities and mental health outcomes. Quantitative analysis demonstrates that individuals engaging in regular forest bathing and wilderness exploration report lower levels of perceived stress and depressive symptoms, alongside higher levels of positive affect and lower levels of negative affect. Multiple regression analysis confirms the predictive power of nature-based activity engagement on mental health outcomes, even after controlling for demographic variables. Qualitative interviews provide additional insights, highlighting themes such as relaxation, connection with nature, and appreciation for the present moment.

The integration of quantitative and qualitative findings underscores the potential of forest bathing and wilderness exploration as effective strategies for promoting mental well-being across diverse populations, emphasizing the importance of incorporating nature-based activities into holistic approaches to mental health promotion and treatment.