Forest Brief｜News, insights, and events on forest and health

July 25th, 1st Wartenberg Forest Therapy Congress

Alliance for the forest as a source of health

October 24–25, 2025 · 1st Wartenberg Forest Therapy Congress

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek joins as a featured expert – we’d love to see you there!

On October 24 and 25, 2025, the Wartenberg Clinic will host the 1st Wartenberg Forest Therapy Congress, under the headline “Alliance for the forest as a source of health.” This exclusive and forward-looking event brings together leading minds in forest medicine and therapy for a compact, high-quality program bridging research and practice.

What makes this congress so unique? It offers not only cutting-edge insights into the science behind forest therapy but also interdisciplinary perspectives on how clinical forest therapy is applied across a range of treatment approaches. Participants will gain valuable ideas on how to integrate this complementary therapy into their own practices to enhance and enrich existing offerings.

We’re especially pleased to share that Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, forest health expert and director of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Therapy in Munich, will speak alongside none other than Dr. Qing Li – global pioneer in forest medicine and honorary member of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Academy. Dr. Li is founding president of the Forest Therapy Society of Japan and a leading voice in international forest and health research initiatives.

The first day of the congress will focus on current research and evidence on the health benefits of forest therapy. Dr. Adamek and Dr. Li will discuss key breakthroughs in Shinrin Yoku and clinical applications of forest medicine. A wide range of additional expert talks round out the day.

The second day moves into hands-on practice: guided sessions and expert-led walks on the clinic’s 40-hectare forest grounds, including its dedicated forest therapy trail—developed as part of the "Wartenberg study on clinical forest therapy in geriatric patients,” with support from the Bavarian Ministry of Health.

More than a scientific meeting, this congress also aims to form a strong and lasting alliance for the forest as a source of health. Healthcare professionals and clinic representatives will find a truly special environment for networking, collaboration, and inspiration. Dr. Melanie H. Adamek says it best:“This congress is a fantastic opportunity to explore the vital role our forests play in human health and how we can integrate that knowledge into our healthcare systems. I’m honored to represent the IWSI alongside Dr. Qing Li and help build new pathways for cooperation, in line with our shared vision: more nature in medical care.”

Spots are limited – only 99 seats available! Secure yours early and become part of the alliance for the forest as a valuable health resource.

07/25｜Feature article in the July issue of CO.med

Green medicine

When nature, culture and medicine come together

 Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in Co.med, journal for complementary medicine, July 2025

“Green medicine.” The term sounds familiar, positive, and inviting—but there’s far more behind it than a simple definition. Green medicine is a fascinating and multi-layered concept that brings together natural healing, cultural practices, environmental influences, psychosocial factors, and holistic approaches to health. It opens the door to a more sustainable, integrative healthcare model and invites us to see health through a new lens—one that views humans, nature, and culture as inseparable. From traditional healing methods to modern scientific insights, green medicine offers a rich and evolving field. In her latest article, forest health expert Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, director of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Therapy in Munich, explores what green medicine really means—and why it has the potential to transform how we understand health.

02/25｜Feature article in the February issue of CO.med

Integrative cancer therapy

Forest therapy in the oncological context – applications and potential

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in Co.med, journal for complementary medicine, February 2025

Cancer patients often face a wide range of physical and psychological challenges—not only due to the illness and its treatment but also as a result of emotional and social strain. How can forest therapy be used within integrative medicine to support the overall well-being of those affected? Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, forest health expert and director of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy in Munich, outlines the goals and possible applications of forest therapy and offers practical guidance for implementation. She also presents promising studies exploring the potential of forest therapy in oncological care.

10/24｜Featured article in the October issue of CO.med

Nature connection in built environments

Biophilic design – a fascinating concept with real health benefits

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in Co.med, a journal for complementary medicine, October 2024

In her latest article, Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, forest health expert and director of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy in Munich, explores the concept of biophilic design. She explains how integrating nature into architecture and interior design not only enhances well-being but also delivers measurable health benefits. This exciting approach is reinforcing the trend toward more sustainable and health-supportive living, working, and healing spaces. Dr. Adamek also shares practical tips for implementation and presents compelling studies that highlight the health advantages of reconnecting with nature—even indoors.

09/24｜The IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy in Action

München tut gut features the healing power of the forest

Forest bathing – a unique nature experience for body, mind, and soul

Editor Eva Walig delves into the healing power of the forest with the IWSI

Can spending time in the forest really boost our immune system and reduce stress? That’s exactly what editor and presenter Eva Walig set out to discover in the program München tut gut. Together with forest health expert Dr. Melanie H. Adamek and psychologist and forest therapist Sabine Oberg from the IM-WALD-SEIN® Academy, Eva embarked on a meaningful journey into the world of forest bathing.

During their shared forest retreat, the participants explored the deep effects of being in the forest on their overall well-being and experienced numerous practices and impulses that helped them immerse themselves in the forest’s healing atmosphere. Eva Walig’s conclusion: “A special nature experience that truly nurtures body, mind, and soul.”

IWSI director Dr. Melanie H. Adamek reflects: “It was a fascinating shoot and a very calming experience where everyone had the chance to connect with the forest in their own way. We had a great time, and Eva did an incredible job capturing the highlights of our three-hour forest bathing session in a beautifully produced 13-minute segment. A real masterpiece – and I’m sure the forest played its part, too. As we know, deep nature experiences not only strengthen our health and resilience, they also inspire creativity.”

Take a break from everyday life and dive into this beautiful feature with us on münchen.tv!

08/24｜IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy

Welcome to the team!

Advancing Nature-Based Therapy Together – in prevention and rehabilitation

Munich, August 2024 – the ISWI welcomes new members

The IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy (IWSI) is proud to announce the addition of three highly accomplished professionals to its team. This marks an important step in our ongoing growth and increasing presence within health policy circles. Please join us in warmly welcoming Hanka Knoche, Prof. Dr. Volker Nürnberg, and Dr. Didona Weippert to the IWSI family!



Hanka Knoche, a long-standing executive board member of BAHN-BKK, successfully transformed the health insurance provider into a leader in preventive healthcare. She joins the IWSI because she firmly believes our prevention-focused approach belongs in the national prevention strategy. Pioneering new paths under the principles of New Work is a mission close to her heart.

Prof. Dr. Volker Nürnberg, a professor of business administration and one of the leading experts on health policy, workplace health, and digital healthcare, is known across Germany as the “Health Pope.” He supports the IWSI and its innovative approach with great conviction: “The consequences of urbanization, the rise in mental health issues, and burnout can all be addressed effectively within the forest setting.”

Dr. Didona Weippert, a physician with many years of experience in clinical management, is convinced that forest medicine and forest therapy can enrich both prevention and treatment for a wide range of conditions. “Preventive medicine in Germany is still in its infancy,” she explains, “which is why I am committed to working with IWSI to ensure that this important field finds its place in outpatient care and rehabilitation clinics.”

“With the expansion of our team, the IWSI will not only continue to grow but also increase its influence in health policy,” says Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, head of the institute. “Our new colleagues bring outstanding experience and unique expertise that will help elevate our work to the next level. Their dedication will also inspire new momentum for integrating forest medicine and therapy into mainstream healthcare—based on the IWSI® method. I’m truly delighted to welcome them on board!”

08/24｜Abstract｜26th IUFRO World Congress in Stockholm

Forests & Society towards 2050

T4.15 Healing Power of Nature: Forest Therapy in Action

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek presented forest therapy according to the IM-WALD-SEIN® method

"A fantastic, intensive week filled with impressive research projects from around the world. A key focus was the role of forests in shaping a sustainable future. The lectures, workshops, and presentations covered everything from innovative forest management techniques and the latest climate change findings to the healing power of forests and nature. Cutting-edge approaches to conservation and reforestation were explored, all aiming to create a greener world together. I am truly delighted to have taken part in the 2024 IUFRO World Congress in beautiful Stockholm — a week bursting with inspiration, valuable exchanges, and fresh insights!"

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, director of the IWSI in Munich, contributed to the keynote session T4.15, "Healing Power of Nature: Forest Therapy in Action," with her presentation, "Co-therapist Forest: The IWSI Method Brings Forest Therapy into Health Care and Rehabilitation." She shared the background and outcomes of the IM-WALD-SEIN collaboration project with Sana Kliniken Sommerfeld, which is pioneering the integration of forest therapy based on the IM-WALD-SEIN® method into patient care. She also highlighted how this method motivates individuals to take active steps toward improving their personal health.

"The conference was an excellent opportunity to connect with experts and practitioners from around the globe across various disciplines. The discussions sparked numerous new ideas and collaborations. I was truly touched by the enthusiastic response to our work, and I’m proud to have been able to ignite that passion in the audience — all within just three minutes," Dr. Adamek commented.

07/24｜Guest article in the July issue of CO.med

(Re-)connection with nature as a therapeutic tool

Forest therapy in geriatric medicine: typical examples and practical implementation

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in Co.med, Journal for complementary medicine, July 2024

The close contact with nature that many older people experienced in their youth offers valuable approaches for geriatric medicine. At a time when older adults often face various (chronic) health challenges, cognitive decline, increasing immobility, loneliness, or feelings of isolation, reviving these memories can bring joy, relaxation, and comfort. (Re)connecting with nature can also serve as a therapeutic tool to improve health, well-being, and quality of life in later years.

06/24｜Podcast on Forest Therapy

Podcast interview in Naturheilkunde Kompakt

Forest therapy for more vitality and well-being

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in conversation with Yasmin Niederstenschee

WWhat are the health benefits of spending time in the forest? How can forest therapy be applied in practice? And how important is proper training for using forest therapy with patients? This podcast episode on the healing power of the forest answers these and many other key questions. You’ll also discover how to use the forest as a personal retreat. Additionally, the discussion highlights the differences and similarities between forest therapy, forest medicine, and forest bathing. So, dive into the wonderful and healing world of the forest!

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek said: “I truly enjoyed the insightful questions and engaging discussion during this interview. Speaking with Yasmin Niederstenschee was a pleasure. I hope this topic reaches many health and therapy leaders in politics, medicine, and society — and most importantly, gains the recognition it deserves in health prevention.”

06/24｜26th IUFRO World Congress in Stockholm

Forests & Society towards 2050

26th IUFRO World Congress in Stockholm

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek invited as expert

From June 23rd to 29th, the 26th world congress of the International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO) will take place in Stockholm, Sweden. IUFRO promotes global research cooperation on forests and trees, their sustainable use, and their role in environmental and societal development.

Held every five years, the IUFRO world congress is one of the largest global forestry events, attracting around 2,000 participants. Since 1893, it has brought together scientists and stakeholders worldwide to discuss priority topics in forest research, policy, and management — all within an interdisciplinary and integrative scientific framework.

This year’s congress theme, “Forests & society towards 2050,” focuses on the significant challenges forests will face by mid-century due to climate change, population growth, globalization, and economic expansion. These pressures highlight the crucial role forests play in achieving the Convention on Biological Diversity’s vision of “living in harmony with nature” and the goal of net-zero emissions.

By aligning with the 2030 agenda and the sustainable development goals, the 2024 IUFRO world congress aims to strengthen forest research agendas, foster dialogue and cross-sector cooperation, and emphasize the multifunctional benefits forests provide.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek comments: “This congress offers an outstanding platform to highlight the vital role of forests. I am honored to present in the session ‘Healing power of nature: Forest therapy in action’ with my talk ‘Co-therapist forest: The IWSI method integrating forest therapy into healthcare and rehabilitation.’ It’s an inspiring forum for innovation and collaboration, setting the stage for future partnerships. This congress is not only a milestone for forest science but also a vital step towards securing a healthier planet for generations to come.”

03/24｜New book on forest bathing, Shinrin Yoku, and being in the forest published

Practical guide with 50 exercises

M. Amos Clifford: Your Guide to Forest Bathing, Shinrin Yoku, and Being in the Forest. Experience the Healing Power of Nature

Munich｜March 2024

This book is a powerful and successful wake-up call as well as a practical guide to reconnecting with nature — a vital and positive part of our lives in every situation and life phase. Nature’s healing power can be transformative, but the key is the willingness to engage with it. This is exactly where M. Amos Clifford’s work begins: it opens us to the experience of being in the forest and creates a framework in which the forest and all elements of the natural world can work together with us. As the author aptly puts it: “The healing of people and the forest happens together or not at all. The medicine that brings healing lies in the relationship.”

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek comments: “A wish has come true. The first German edition of Your Guide to Forest Bathing by M. Amos Clifford will be published by OPTIMUM Medien & Service in March 2024, under the editorship of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy. Amos and the ANFT (Association of Nature and Forest Therapy Guides and Programmes), which he founded, are pioneers of relationship-oriented forest therapy — a groundbreaking, fundamental approach that reconnects humans as natural beings to the rich network of relationships with their environment and the ‘more-than-human world.’ I wish the book great success and its readers many new insights and inspiring experiences in and with nature.”

02/24｜Guest article in the January issue of CO.med

IM-WALD-SEIN® City Offices

Munich｜February 2024

The IM-WALD-SEIN® City Offices have launched their biophilic coworking concept. The biophilic design experts at the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy (IWSI) have created an ideal workspace for everyone who wants to work in a relaxed atmosphere right in the heart of Munich — under the forest canopy, at their personal desk, or hosting meetings, workshops, and conferences. Flexible rental models tailored to users' needs make mobile working easy, while the ergonomically designed environment enriched with biophilic elements makes it a real pleasure.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek comments: “Home office has become a fixed part of everyday working life in Germany. Even after the pandemic, around a quarter of employees still work from home at least occasionally. Remote work is expected to increase further. But home office isn’t ideal for everyone, even for jobs that, at first glance, seem perfectly suited to working from a home office.

Besides often challenging family and space situations as well as inadequate equipment and infrastructure, home offices lack clear boundaries between work, breaks, and leisure time — and, importantly, social contact. These social interactions not only spark creativity but also have a significant positive impact on our health and well-being. Equally important is a nature-connected workplace design.

With the IM-WALD-SEIN® City Offices, the biophilic design experts at IWSI intentionally created a multisensory connection to nature indoors, allowing people to connect subconsciously with nature even at work. This promotes well-being and stimulates the mind. The workstations are ergonomically designed, and a fully equipped kitchen offers everything needed for a quick coffee break on the balcony or exchanging ideas under the ‘idea tree’. Anyone needing a break can relax in the hammock of the ‘forest capsule’. A fantastic project!”

12/23｜IWSI partners with INFOM

A major milestone for forest therapy in Germany

IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute becomes the German chapter of INFOM

Munich｜December 2023

The IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy (IWSI) is now the official German chapter of the International Society of Nature and Forest Medicine (INFOM). Dr. Melanie H. Adamek, director of IWSI, comments: “I am very pleased about this cooperation. An exciting new chapter lies ahead. Through ongoing exchange with our parent organization in Japan, we deepen our knowledge firsthand and expand our expert network. This will enable us to contribute even more effectively to the promotion and establishment of scientifically based forest medicine and forest therapy in the German-speaking region.”

The German Model of Forest Medical Treatment

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek invited as expert

From May 26 to 28, 2023, the First Wuzhishan Forest Health Forum will take place, jointly hosted by the Newspaper of the People's Political Consultative Conference, the Hainan Provincial Committee of Population, Resources and Environment, the Hainan Provincial Health Commission, the Hainan Forestry Bureau, and the Wuzhishan People's Government.

The forum aims to promote the Chinese vision of building an ecological civilization and showcase Wuzhishan’s rich and unique forest health resources to the world. It also serves as a platform for exchange and dialogue among government, industry, academia, and research. Experts, scholars, government officials, industry representatives, enterprises, and media are invited to discuss new models and pathways for developing the forest health industry and to promote its high-quality growth nationally.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek commented: “It is a great pleasure and honor to present our forest medicine and forest therapy model through a video presentation at this important event, contributing to the international advancement of the emerging field of forests and health.”

09/22｜International Congress in Croatia

Snaga Sume｜Forest Power Croatia

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek as keynote speaker in Zagreb

Being In The Forest - The Natural Answer To Psychological Stress And Lifestyle Diseases

The 1st International Croatian Forest Therapy Congress will take place in Zagreb from September 12 to 14, 2021. The lineup couldn’t be better. Alongside renowned experts from Japan, South Korea, and the USA, Dr. Melanie H. Adamek will represent the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy as keynote speaker with both a lecture and a workshop. Her topic: BEING IN THE FOREST. The Natural Answer to Psychological Stress and Lifestyle Diseases.

Is Shinrin-Yoku just a trend, or a comprehensive health strategy? What are the real benefits of taking a relaxing break in the forest? Does healthy forest air improve blood pressure? In September 2017, our forest bathing experiment with 12 Shinrin-Yoku pioneers in the forests of northwest Croatia answered many fascinating questions.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek: “I am very pleased that this congress has made a personal wish come true and I’m especially glad to discuss the effects of being in the forest, particularly in Croatia. In 2017, we explored the application of forest therapy in tourism with our forest bathing experiment. In three typical forest settings in the northwestern Croatian mountains, we investigated—based on Prof. Dr. Qing Li’s studies—how a relaxed stay in the forest influences our immune system, mood, and physical well-being. We wanted to understand what the phytoncides and terpenes so abundant in the forest actually do—how and why they benefit our health.

Our groundbreaking experiment was scientifically advised and supported by Prof. Dr. Angela Schuh and Gisela Immich from the Chair of Public Health at LMU Munich, as well as by Prof. Dr. Daniel Rukavina (✝︎) from the University of Rijeka. The astonishing results are published in the compendium BEING IN THE FOREST. The Natural Answer to Psychological Stress and Lifestyle Diseases. Discovering a Preventive Health Concept.”

Being in the forest as medicine

The role of forest therapy in Long-COVID

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in Co.med｜Journal for complementary medicine｜August 2022

Long COVID is a complex and diverse condition that, according to experts, affects about ten percent of all adults who have had COVID-19. Forest therapy, as a complementary medical approach, can support the treatment of these long-term effects when conventional medicine and naturopathy are combined in a holistic approach.

INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON FOREST THERAPY: HEALING WITH NATURE

The role of forest therapy in rehabilitation

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek shares insights on the clinical use of forest therapy

From July 7 to 9, 2022, the Faculty of Forestry at the University of British Columbia is hosting a three-day virtual event centered on forest therapy research, its institutional framework, and best practices for effective implementation.

n July 8, Dr. Melanie H. Adamek will join the Health Session as a panelist to speak on: Forest medicine in healthcare? The role of forest therapy in rehabilitating patients with post-COVID conditions. A collaboration project between IWSI and Sana Clinics Sommerfeld, Germany.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek comments: “The lineup of keynote speakers is truly outstanding, and I’m honored that our institute was invited to take part in this remarkable conference.”

Register and discuss the future prospects of a practice that promotes mental, physical, and social well-being!

XV WORLD FORESTRY CONGRESS

Building a Green, Healthy and Resilient Future with Forests

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek represents the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute

Forests: an integral part of our existence

From May 2 to 6, 2022, the XV World Forestry Congress will be held at Coex in Seoul. This event offers a crucial platform for the global forestry community to assess the current state and future of forestry, especially in light of recovery efforts from the COVID-19 pandemic, while advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The Congress will emphasize the vital role forests play in the global sustainable development agenda—including the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Global Forest Goals (GFGs), the Paris Climate Agreement, the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, and the post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework—and will identify key actions and recommendations to strengthen this role.

Structured around six sub-themes, the Congress aims to ensure that forests remain central to sustainable development discussions and decision-making, reflecting their importance for the health, well-being, and resilience of our planet and its people.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek comments:

“I’m delighted to represent our institute at this prestigious international congress with our contribution: ‘Promoting forest medicine and therapy in a contemporary world: practical approaches and the role of professionals and stakeholders.’ I look forward to the forward-thinking topics, discussions, and speakers. Although it’s unfortunate that the Congress is being held online due to the pandemic, I would have loved to travel to Korea again—it’s a fascinating country with wonderful people.”

92nd Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Hygiene

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek speaks at International Symposium

The role of forest therapy in post-Covid times

On March 21, 2022, Hyogo College of Medicine in Nishinomiya, Hyogo Prefecture, will host an international symposium on the role of forest medicine during the COVID-19 pandemic as part of the 92nd annual meeting of the Japanese Society for Hygiene. The symposium will be chaired by Dr. Qing Li, clinical professor at Nippon Medical School and president of the Society of Forest Medicine, alongside Dr. Masayuki Shima, professor at Hyogo College of Medicine and president of the 92nd annual meeting. Speakers from Japan, China, South Korea, Canada, Italy, England, and Germany will participate.

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek comments: “I’m delighted to have been invited to speak at this exciting symposium, to reconnect with colleagues—albeit virtually this time—and to meet new experts. Together with chief physician Dr. Volker Liefring from Sana Rehabilitation Clinic for Orthopedics Sommerfeld, I will represent Germany. Our presentation is titled ‘The role of forest medicine in post-COVID-19 health management and disease prevention.’”

Position taken

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek takes over management of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy in Munich

Munich｜June 2021

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek assumed leadership of the IM-WALD-SEIN® Institute for Forest Medicine and Forest Therapy (IWSI) in November 2020. Since then, the institute is on a clear path for further growth. She states: “In recent months, we have refined our service offerings and established new partnerships that actively support our mission. We look forward to many exciting projects, particularly in the field of medical care.”

The IWSI is an interdisciplinary, international network dedicated to advancing evidence- and science-based forest medicine and forest therapy. The institute currently consists of eight specialist divisions addressing different target groups with customized programs, all supported by the IM-WALD-SEIN® Academy.

From a feeling to science

BEING IN THE FOREST: Health from nature

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in Co.med, Journal for complementary medicine, May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has made it clear to everyone just how vital a strong, flexible, and resilient immune system is—not only for our personal health but also for society as a whole. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, such as getting enough sleep, is one of the best ways to support and strengthen our immune system. Yet, the health benefits and immune-boosting effects of forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, remain widely underestimated in many places.

From Shinrin Yoku to forest therapy

The healing power of the forest

Dr. Melanie H. Adamek in PraxisMagazin｜Medical Journal for naturopathic medicine｜November 2020

It is well known that spending time in the forest has a positive effect on our immune system. The significant health benefits of forest bathing, or Shinrin Yoku, have been studied and scientifically proven by renowned researchers. One of the key effects is that a well-guided stay in the forest—even from the very first visit—can increase the number and activity of our natural killer (NK) cells, which are a vital part of our immune defense, by more than 30 percent. The recommendation is clear: “Activate your inner doctor. Harness the enormous healing power of the forest, especially in times of a viral pandemic.”