Creating physically and psychologically safe environments is essential for the effectiveness of nature-based interventions such as forest bathing and forest therapy, especially when addressing individuals who may encounter emotional triggers, phobias, or stress responses during these experiences. Professional guides play a central role in managing these challenges through a set of strategic responses designed to mitigate risks and ensure participants feel secure and supported throughout the activity. These strategies include thorough pre-activity assessments, clear communication protocols, and adaptable intervention frameworks that allow the guide to respond appropriately to unexpected emotional reactions. The establishment of a “safe enough” space—rather than a fully risk-free environment—acknowledges the dynamic interaction between individual perception and environmental exposure, embracing the therapeutic potential of minor discomforts when managed with care. The Liquid Interaction Model (LIM) provides a theoretical foundation that emphasizes the adaptability of health and well-being as processes of continuous interaction with one’s physical and social environment. This model encourages guides to view participants as active agents in their own healing, capable of engaging meaningfully with their surroundings. Emotional containment techniques such as the “Txoko” practice, a nature-based reflective pause, help participants integrate their experiences while strengthening their sense of autonomy and resilience. Ultimately, fostering psychological safety not only enhances individual outcomes but also consolidates the integrity of nature-based practices as a professional, reliable modality in the field of preventive and integrative health.
Gesse, A., Camacho, A., & Filgueira, L. (2022). Standard of Key Strategies to Reduce Hazards, Mitigate Ris
