Author: Tara Tiger Brown

  • Doctoral Research on Jericho Park’s Health Benefits and Risks from Proposed Development

    Doctoral Research on Jericho Park’s Health Benefits and Risks from Proposed Development

    The following is the email that I sent to Vancouver City Council regarding Jericho Lands Public Hearing on April 15th.

    Dear Mayor Sim and Councillors,

    I am writing as a resident of Vancouver’s westside and a researcher specializing in nature and human health to express my concern about the proposed Jericho Lands development and its potential impact on Jericho Park, an irreplaceable, free public health resource for Vancouver residents.

    Over the past four years, I have conducted two major studies—my doctoral research and the Silent Trails project with Metro Vancouver Regional Parks—focused on identifying and evaluating urban park trails that provide measurable therapeutic benefits. Through a combination of environmental monitoring, vegetation surveys, and participant physiological and psychological data, I assessed numerous parks and trails across the region. I specifically chose Jericho Park as one of my study sites because the City of Vancouver identified it as a biodiversity hotspot with unique ecological value (https://vancouver.ca/files/cov/biodiversity-strategy.pdf).

    My doctoral research, a randomized crossover clinical trial (the gold standard in evidence-based health research) conducted over four seasons in four Metro Vancouver parks, demonstrated that Jericho Park’s forest trails are one of the few places in Vancouver where environmental conditions—such as plant diversity, quiet soundscapes, and natural light—are present at a level that supports measurable mental and physical health benefits. This is different from jogging or dog walking. It’s access to spaces where people can experience stress reduction, improved mood, and deeper nature connection, which require specific environmental qualities. These features are increasingly uncommon within the city as noise pollution rises and greenspace declines at double the national average. Once altered by surrounding development, they are unlikely to be recovered.

    These findings are particularly significant given that one in five Vancouver residents reports experiencing extreme daily stress or has a mood or anxiety disorder. Additionally, a growing disconnection from nature is linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and cardiovascular disease.

    Jericho Park’s Health Benefits
    My research identified the following specific health outcomes among participants at Jericho Park:
    – Cardiovascular improvements indicated lower physiological stress levels.
    – Enhanced mood and decreased depression, especially among older adults.
    – The strongest connection to nature among study sites.
    – Greater vegetation diversity was associated with improved mood and lower depression scores.
    – The oldest average participants (63 years) and the highest proportion of long-term residents among the sites underscore its significance for aging populations.

    What’s At Risk
    “Each time I do this, I look forward to it and feel much better afterward—mentally, emotionally and physically.” – Study Participant

    The proposed development threatens the conditions that make Jericho Park effective as a therapeutic space. If the forest becomes noisy from construction and urbanization, shadowed by tall buildings, and/or overused, biodiversity will be impacted. It will undermine the park’s public health value, and that impact must be measured and made transparent to the community that relies on it for their health and well-being.

    Request to Council
    To protect Jericho Park’s public health value, I urge Council to:
    – Conduct a health and environmental impact assessment before approving further development phases.
    – Implement buffer zones and building height limits near park boundaries to protect forest microclimates.
    – Require acoustic and visual impact studies to preserve the sensory qualities essential to the park’s therapeutic effects.

    Preserving Jericho Park’s soundscape, biodiversity, and accessibility is a cost-effective public health strategy and a critical component of equitable urban planning. We cannot normalize the idea that we must “escape the city” to experience the benefits of nature.

    As Vancouver continues to face rising urban stress and climate challenges, I ask the Council to protect Jericho Park’s role in the city’s commitment to public health. I’m available to support the next steps or provide additional data points.

  • IUFRO 2024 – Forest Bathing in Canada

    Session: T4.15 Healing Power of Nature: Forest Therapy in Action
    Tuesday, June 25, 08:30 – 10:30 AM (CEST)

    Forest Bathing in Canada: A Randomized Controlled Trial Investigating Environmental Influence on Health

    Presentation References

    Colley, R. C. et al. (2022, October 19). How sedentary are Canadian adults? It depends on the measure. https://www.doi.org/10.25318/82-003-x202201000002-eng

    Colley, R. C., & Saunders, T. J. (2023, October 18). The ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on physical activity and screen time among Canadian adults. https://www.doi.org/10.25318/82-003-x202301000002-eng

    Ipsos. (2024, May 29). Trails and Outdoor Recreation in BC. https://www.ipsos.com/en-ca/trails-and-outdoor-recreation-in-bc

    Kellert, S. R. (1991). Japanese Perceptions of Wildlife. Conservation Biology, 5(3), 297–308. https://www.jstor.org/stable/2385899

    Mathias, S., Daigle, P., Dancause, K. N., & Gadais, T. (2020). Forest bathing: A narrative review of the effects on health for outdoor and environmental education use in Canada. Journal of Outdoor and Environmental Education, 23(3), 309–321. https://doi.org/10.1007/s42322-020-00058-3

    Public Health Agency of Canada. (2017). How Healthy are Canadians? [Education and awareness]. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/healthy-living/how-healthy-canadians.html

    Stats Canada (2018). An overview of Canada’s forest resources. https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/11-627-m/11-627-m2018007-eng.htm

    Yeon, P.-S., Jeon, J.-Y., Jung, M.-S., Min, G.-M., Kim, G.-Y., Han, K.-M., Shin, M.-J., Jo, S.-H., Kim, J.-G., & Shin, W.-S. (2021). Effect of Forest Therapy on Depression and Anxiety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 18(23), Article 23. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph182312685

  • Bringing Forest Bathing to Vancouver: A Conversation About Nature’s Healing Power

    I had the pleasure of discussing forest bathing with Angela Bower from CityNews sharing insights about how this Japanese-inspired practice is taking root in Vancouver’s urban forests. As a PhD candidate in UBC’s Faculty of Forestry, I’ve been particularly excited to bridge the gap between traditional Japanese nature therapy and Western wellness practices.

    During our conversation, I explained how forest bathing goes beyond a simple nature walk. It’s about immersing yourself completely in the forest atmosphere, engaging all your senses, and connecting with nature on a deeper level. What makes this practice particularly intriguing is the science behind it – especially the role of phytoncides, natural compounds released by trees that can boost our immune system.

    One of the most interesting aspects we discussed was the historical context of forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku as it’s known in Japan. The practice emerged in 1982 during Japan’s technological boom, when urbanization was leading to increased stress levels among city dwellers. It’s fascinating how this solution from four decades ago remains increasingly relevant in today’s digital age.

    Through my research at UBC, I’ve been exploring how these forest-derived compounds affect our bodies at the cellular level. Specifically, I’ve been studying how phytoncides can enhance the activity of natural killer cells, which play a crucial role in our immune system’s response to potential threats.

    But perhaps what excites me most is the practical application of this research. In response to feedback from forest bathing participants about noise levels on trails, I’m currently collaborating with Metro Vancouver on an innovative project to establish “Silent Trails” in the city. These designated quiet zones will allow people to fully immerse themselves in the natural soundscape – from rustling leaves to birdsong – without urban distractions.

    My hope is that Silent Trails will be ready before summer, offering Vancouverites a new way to experience the healing power of our urban forests. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see how this ancient practice is being embraced by our modern city, creating spaces where nature’s therapeutic benefits can be fully realized.

    Through this interview, I was able to share not just my research, but my vision for making forest bathing more accessible to everyone in Vancouver. As our cities grow and our lives become increasingly digital, these connections to nature become not just beneficial, but essential for our wellbeing.

    This interview was by Angela Bower and Pippa Norman, and aired on April 22, 2024.

  • Forest Bathing for web3

    Episode 85: Punk1806, Tara Tiger Brown, Forrest Lover & PhD Candidate, UBC

    Timestamp: 15:04 – 24:22

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    Summary of the Conversation

    Forest bathing, a concept originating from Japan in the early 1980s, was introduced by the director of the Forest Agency. This idea emerged during significant urbanization, with young people migrating from rural areas to cities. This shift led to increased stress levels, particularly among office workers, prompting a search for natural solutions.

    Researchers, including a Soviet chemist and a Japanese professor, explored the role of biogenic volatile organic compounds, like terpenes, emitted by trees. These compounds, used by trees for protection and communication, were theorized to offer health benefits to humans.
    The concept of forest bathing is deeply rooted in our evolutionary history. Humans, having evolved over millions of years, are biologically tuned to natural environments, unlike the artificial, built environments we often find ourselves in today. Forest bathing involves immersing oneself in nature, engaging all senses – from breathing the air and touching plants to observing natural patterns and listening to the sounds of nature.

    Stephen and Rachel Kaplan, environmental psychologists from the 1980s, developed the Attention Restoration Theory, which suggests that natural environments can help reduce mental fatigue. This theory points to ‘Soft Fascination’ – our brain’s effortless processing of natural patterns like leaves, branches, or flowing water, which provides a restorative break from the intense focus required in our daily lives.

    Being in nature not only alleviates mental fatigue but also reduces stress. Built environments with noise, air, and light pollution can elevate cortisol levels, leading to constant stress. In contrast, natural settings can lower stress and improve health markers like blood pressure.

    While individual responses vary based on health, geographic location, culture, and spirituality, the general principle holds. Even brief interactions with nature, such as looking out a window or viewing nature photographs, can be beneficial. However, the full multisensory experience of being outdoors is unmatched.

    When choosing a natural environment for forest bathing, safety and accessibility are paramount. Regular, short visits are more beneficial than infrequent, long sessions. Variety in these natural settings is also important to prevent habituation and to keep the environment engaging.

    My research aims to create dynamic park brochures considering various environmental attributes, including seasonal changes and weather conditions like wildfire smoke. As we face more extreme weather events due to climate change, indoor strategies for connecting with nature become equally important.

    The ideal natural setting for forest bathing combines safety, accessibility, biodiversity, and water features. Such environments allow for relaxation and a much-needed break from the stresses of modern life.

  • Brief Summary of Nature Immersion Benefits

    By Tara L. Brown

    Spending time in natural settings such as forests has been found to offer many health benefits, influenced by multiple variables, including the type of forest, individual compatibility, and perceived quality of the environment (1–3). These experiences, ranging from visual encounters with natural landscapes to tactile interaction with plants, have profound mental and physical effects.

    Direct benefits span both mental and physical well-being. Experiences in natural settings can reduce anxiety and enhance cognitive function, and these effects may be noticeable within short timeframes, such as 30 to 60 minutes (1,2,4). Research has also highlighted the therapeutic effects of forest therapy on mental health conditions such as depression (5). In terms of physical health, there are reductions in risk factors for various diseases like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions (6). Additional research highlights other physiological benefits such as decreased stress hormone levels, reduced blood pressure and pulse rate, and enhanced immune function, including increased anti-cancer proteins in natural killer cells (7,8). Phytoncides, chemical compounds such as a-pinene and d-limonene emitted by conifer trees, have been linked to anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and neuroprotective advantages (9).

    The concept of “restorative environments” offers insights into how forests aid stress recovery and mental rejuvenation (1–3). Additionally, “nature connectedness,” a psychological affinity for nature, is associated with improved mental well-being and responsible environmental behaviour (10,11). Forests also function as venues for exercise and social interaction, indirectly elevating public health by reducing obesity rates and enhancing sleep quality (12–14).

    Forested areas can offset harmful environmental factors by improving air quality and reducing noise pollution (15). From a demographic standpoint, studies indicate that immigrants, particularly in Vancouver, are less likely to engage in nature-based activities (16,17), highlighting the need for inclusive and adaptable nature therapy programs. Moreover, the biological diversity in these natural settings may offer as-yet-undiscovered health benefits, extending the scope of their impact on well-being (15).

    These benefits can manifest within varying time frames and contexts. 5 to 10 minutes of exposure to nature can enhance self-esteem and mood (18). Spending 30 to 60 minutes in a forest setting has been shown to reduce anxiety levels (4) and improve cognitive performance (19). A 90-minute nature walk can decrease rumination (20) and consistent weekly exposure of 3 to 4 hours can yield multiple long-term benefits (21). Synthetic environments offer alternatives for individuals who find it challenging to get outdoors. A 20-minute digital forest therapy session can improve mood (22), and viewing nature photos for a few minutes can bring about positive changes in heart rate and mood (1).

    Factors to consider that contribute to negative effects of nature exposure include gender, safety concerns, socioeconomic status, perceptions, physical discomfort and culture (23–26).

    Contact

    Tara L. Brown
    PhD Candidate, UBC Faculty of Forestry
    tarabr@student.ubc.ca

    Download

    Nature Immersion Booklet: https://taratigerbrown.com/self-guided/

    References

    1.         Ulrich RS, Simons RF, Losito BD, Fiorito E, Miles MA, Zelson M. Stress recovery during exposure to natural and urban environments. Journal of Environmental Psychology [Internet]. 1991 Sep 1 [cited 2021 Jun 9];11(3):201–30. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272494405801847

    2.         Kaplan S. The restorative benefits of nature: Toward an integrative framework. Journal of Environmental Psychology [Internet]. 1995 Sep 1 [cited 2021 Jun 9];15(3):169–82. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/0272494495900012

    3.         Health Council of the Netherlands. Nature and Health. The influence of nature on social, psychological and physical well-being [Internet]. The Hague: Health Council of the Netherlands and RMNO, 2004: Health Council of the Netherlands; 2004 Jun [cited 2023 May 26] p. 112. Report No.: publication no. 2004/09E; RMNO publication nr A02ae. Available from: https://www.healthcouncil.nl/binaries/healthcouncil/documenten/advisory-reports/2004/06/09/nature-and-health.-the-influence-of-nature-on-social-psychological-and-physical-well-being/advisory-report-nature-and-health-the-influence-of-nature-on-social-psychological-and-physical-well-being.pdf

    4.         Tester-Jones M, White MP, Elliott LR, Weinstein N, Grellier J, Economou T, et al. Results from an 18 country cross-sectional study examining experiences of nature for people with common mental health disorders. Sci Rep [Internet]. 2020 Nov 6 [cited 2022 Oct 12];10(1):19408. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-75825-9

    5.         Rosa CD, Larson LR, Collado S, Profice CC. Forest therapy can prevent and treat depression: Evidence from meta-analyses. Urban Forestry & Urban Greening [Internet]. 2021 Jan 1 [cited 2022 Sep 13];57:126943. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1618866720307603

    6.         Tsunetsugu Y, Park BJ, Miyazaki Y. Trends in research related to “Shinrin-yoku” (taking in the forest atmosphere or forest bathing) in Japan. Environ Health Prev Med [Internet]. 2010 Jan [cited 2022 Jan 27];15(1):27–37. Available from: https://environhealthprevmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1007/s12199-009-0091-z

    7.         Li Q. Effects of forest environment (Shinrin-yoku/Forest bathing) on health promotion and disease prevention —the Establishment of “Forest Medicine”—. Environ Health Prev Med [Internet]. 2022 [cited 2022 Nov 3];27(0):43–43. Available from: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/ehpm/27/0/27_22-00160/_article

    8.         Li Q. Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environ Health Prev Med [Internet]. 2010 Jan 1 [cited 2021 Feb 16];15(1):9–17. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12199-008-0068-3

    9.         Stier-Jarmer M, Throner V, Kirschneck M, Immich G, Frisch D, Schuh A. The Psychological and Physical Effects of Forests on Human Health: A Systematic Review of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [Internet]. 2021 Jan [cited 2021 May 28];18(4):1770. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/4/1770

    10.       Mackay CML, Schmitt MT. Do people who feel connected to nature do more to protect it? A meta-analysis. Journal of Environmental Psychology [Internet]. 2019 Oct 1 [cited 2022 Sep 5];65:101323. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272494418308557

    11.       Whitburn J, Linklater W, Abrahamse W. Meta-analysis of human connection to nature and proenvironmental behavior. Conservation Biology [Internet]. 2020 [cited 2022 Nov 25];34(1):180–93. Available from: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/cobi.13381

    12.       Donovan GH, Butry DT, Michael YL, Prestemon JP, Liebhold AM, Gatziolis D, et al. The Relationship Between Trees and Human Health: Evidence from the Spread of the Emerald Ash Borer. American Journal of Preventive Medicine [Internet]. 2013 Feb 1 [cited 2022 Sep 19];44(2):139–45. Available from: https://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(12)00804-5/fulltext

    13.       Li Q, Ochiai H, Ochiai T, Takayama N, Kumeda S, Miura T, et al. Effects of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) on serotonin in serum, depressive symptoms and subjective sleep quality in middle-aged males. Environ Health Prev Med [Internet]. 2022 [cited 2023 Mar 9];27(0):44–44. Available from: https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/ehpm/27/0/27_22-00136/_article

    14.       Morita E, Imai M, Okawa M, Miyaura T, Miyazaki S. A before and after comparison of the effects of forest walking on the sleep of a community-based sample of people with sleep complaints. BioPsychoSocial Medicine [Internet]. 2011 Oct 14 [cited 2022 Apr 21];5(1):13. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1186/1751-0759-5-13

    15.       Aerts R, Honnay O, Van Nieuwenhuyse A. Biodiversity and human health: mechanisms and evidence of the positive health effects of diversity in nature and green spaces. British Medical Bulletin [Internet]. 2018 Sep 1 [cited 2022 Nov 9];127(1):5–22. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1093/bmb/ldy021

    16.       Charles Rodriguez U, Venegas de la Torre MDLP, Hecker V, Laing RA, Larouche R. The Relationship Between Nature and Immigrants’ Integration, Wellbeing and Physical Activity: A Scoping Review. J Immigrant Minority Health [Internet]. 2022 Feb 24 [cited 2022 Jun 27]; Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-022-01339-3

    17.       Federal, Provincial, and Territorial Governments of Canada. 2012 Canadian Nature Survey [Internet]. Ottawa, ON: Canadian Councils of Resource Ministers; 2014 p. 189. Available from: https://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2014/ec/En4-243-2014-eng.pdf

    18.       Barton J, Pretty J. What is the Best Dose of Nature and Green Exercise for Improving Mental Health? A Multi-Study Analysis. Environ Sci Technol [Internet]. 2010 May 15 [cited 2021 Nov 18];44(10):3947–55. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1021/es903183r

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    20.       Bratman GN, Hamilton JP, Hahn KS, Daily GC, Gross JJ. Nature experience reduces rumination and subgenual prefrontal cortex activation. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A [Internet]. 2015 Jul 14 [cited 2022 Sep 13];112(28):8567–72. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4507237/

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    22.       Takayama N, Morikawa T, Koga K, Miyazaki Y, Harada K, Fukumoto K, et al. Exploring the Physiological and Psychological Effects of Digital Shinrin-Yoku and Its Characteristics as a Restorative Environment. Int J Environ Res Public Health [Internet]. 2022 Jan 21 [cited 2022 Nov 25];19(3):1202. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8834905/

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    24.       Lim PY, Dillon D, Chew PKH. A Guide to Nature Immersion: Psychological and Physiological Benefits. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [Internet]. 2020 Jan [cited 2022 Apr 25];17(16):5989. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/16/5989

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    26.       Nay A, Kahn PH, Lawler JJ, Bratman GN. Inequitable Changes to Time Spent in Urban Nature during COVID-19: A Case Study of Seattle, WA with Asian, Black, Latino, and White Residents. Land [Internet]. 2022 Aug [cited 2022 Sep 19];11(8):1277. Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2073-445X/11/8/1277