Taking students into the forest for field practice combined with stress relief after an intense academic period supports both hands-on learning and mental well-being. Forest bathing (shinrin-yoku), developed in Japan, has been proven effective in many studies: it reduces cortisol, lowers blood pressure and heart rate, strengthens the immune system thanks to phytoncides released by trees, and improves mood while reducing anxiety and depression—helping students study more effectively.
With support from the Mental High project, Forestry and Environmental students at Thai Nguyen University of Agriculture and Forestry (TUAF) combine professional fieldwork (biodiversity measurement, ecosystem observation, and forest plant identification) at the ATK Dinh Hoa Special-Use Forest in Thai Nguyen Province. This activity helps them apply theory in real-world settings, fosters environmental awareness, and deepens their understanding of the forest’s role in climate regulation and climate change mitigation, thereby building “leave no trace” habits and avoiding careless harvesting or damage.
In addition, group activities such as setting up camps, sharing around a campfire, light yoga, or meditation under the forest canopy strengthen community bonds, build friendships, develop teamwork and adaptability skills, and reduce stress.
