Abstract

This interdisciplinary study applies environmental psychology and tourism science to develop the Mindfulness-Based Forest Bathing (MBFB) model for sustainable wellness tourism in Vietnam. Using a mixed- methods approach, the research collected data from 147 participants through surveys, interviews, and an intervention trial at Dong Nai Cultural and Nature Reserve. The MBFB model showed signifi cant positive impacts on mental health (Cohen’s d = 1.23 for stress reduction), physical health (18.7% reduction in cortisol, p < 0.001), and revisit intention (β = 0.67, p < 0.001). Economic analysis suggests this model could generate 2.3 billion USD in revenue and 180,000 jobs over 10 years. The MBFB model contributes to theories on attention restoration and transformative tourism by clarifying how guided “people–forest” interaction promotes psychological well-being and sustainable tourism behavior.

Keywords: Forest bathing, mindfulness, wellness tourism, sustainable development, environmental psychology, Vietnam.