森林散步與泡湯對生心理健康促進效益之比較

Comparison of the Effects of Forest Walking and Hot Spring Bathing on Physiological and Mental Health

臺灣森林蘊涵豐富動植物與獨特地理景觀，亦富含溫泉資源，本研究探討在森林遊樂區中森林散步與泡湯兩種活動之生心理健康促進效益差異，以富源國家森林遊樂區為研究基地。共發放問卷數77份，有效問卷數64份，結果顯示(1)森林散步後在心理上可提升正向情緒，舒緩負向情緒；在生理上可調節血壓，使收縮壓下降，唾液澱粉酶指數下降，顯示有紓壓的效益。(2)泡湯亦可舒緩負向情緒，提升正向情緒，但緊張焦慮未達顯著差異；在生理上顯示泡湯後有調節血壓，對心跳有促進效益。(3)比較森林散步與泡湯效益，泡湯在舒緩部分負向情緒及生理舒張壓的效益大於森林散步。研究結果與相關文獻進行討論，並提出後續研究與政策建議。

Taiwan’s forests contain rich flora and fauna, unique geographical landscapes, and abundant hot spring resources. This study explores the differences in the mental health benefits of forest walking and bathing in forest recreation areas. The research site was the Fuyuan National Forest Recreation Area, and 77 questionnaires were issued for tourists, after which 64 valid questionnaires were retrieved. The results showed that (1) after a forest walk, positive emotions were raised, while negative emotions were relieved; blood pressure was physiologically regulated, systolic blood pressure decreased, and the salivary amylase index decreased, showing the benefits of stress relief. (2) Hot spring bathing activity can relieve negative emotions and enhance positive emotions, but it did not show a significant impact on tension and anxiety. Physiologically, it can regulate blood pressure and promote heartbeat. (3) Comparing the benefits of forest walking and hot spring bathing, the benefits of bathing in soothing negative emotions and physiological diastolic blood pressure are greater than those of walking in the forest. The results are discussed using relevant literature, and follow-up research and policy recommendations are suggested.