A recent study from the American Psychological Association revealed that 42% of U.S. teens report persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, a figure that’s climbed steadily since the pandemic’s onset. In Honolulu, educators are turning to an unexpected ally: forest bathing, a mindful immersion in nature inspired by the Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku. This isn’t about hiking or exercise; it’s a deliberate, sensory engagement with the environment to foster calm. As schools across the islands integrate forest bathing into curricula for 2025, the move reflects a broader push for honolulu wellness and stress relief, aiming to equip students with tools for resilience amid academic pressures and digital overload. Early adopters say it’s transforming how kids navigate daily tensions, blending ancient wisdom with modern mental health needs.
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