The role of place attachment in recreation experience and outcome preferences among forest bathers

Abstract

Forest bathing or forest therapy encompasses slow mindful walking and deep immersion in nature while utilizing all sensory systems, which can occur during multiple recreation activities. This study examined differences in demographic and visit characteristics, recreation experience preferences (i.e., experiential on-site benefits sought), and improved well-being outcome preferences (i.e., long-term off-site outcomes) based on forest bathers’ varying levels of place attachment. The study was framed by immersion in nature benefits-related theories and an Outcomes-Focused Management approach. Using a convenience sample and several forest bathing criteria, responses (N = 247) were voluntarily and anonymously collected with an exit survey of forest bathing participants at national, county, and metropolitan/municipal forests in South Korea from late July to mid-September in 2014. Cluster analysis segmented forest bathing participants into three place attachment groups (Low-Medium-High). Results revealed that forest bathers experiencing higher levels of place attachment were more likely to be non-local, repeat visitors who partake in water-based immersion and mindful forest walking activities. More highly attached forest bathing participants considered various on-site recreation benefits (e.g., social connection, nature enjoyment, physical and mental health) to be more important than less attached forest bathing participants. Also, more highly attached forest bathing participants rated preferences for various improved well-being outcomes, including psychophysiological, psychological, social, economic, and environmental factors significantly higher. Results suggest that forest bathing participation has a significant role in enhancing positive well-being benefits. ∙ Forest therapy known as ‘forest bathing’ is a globally emerging and increasingly popular recreational activity in natural areas. ∙Forest bathing participants with higher levels of attachment to a natural area report stronger preferences for achieving not only on-site personal, health and social benefits but also off-site personal, social, economic, and environmental benefits. ∙Managers can prepare maps indicating sitting places to reflect on natural features and engage with notable natural elements during their forest bathing experience. ∙Forest bathing participants often develop a high sense of attachment to and desire diverse benefit opportunities in the natural area so managers are advised to offer several forest bathing trails of varying lengths with various natural features, so that the more attached forest bathers can achieve the higher levels of experience outcomes they seek. These opportunities should be clearly communicated through websites and trailhead displays to ensure that first-time and long-term visitors are aware of the diverse opportunities available. ∙Since forest bathers are shown to be more highly attached to their natural area, this can benefit managers by having visitors who are more likely to be advocates and supporters of their natural areas when threats emerge or additional funding is needed.