Integrating Shinrin-Yoku and Biophilic Design with Digital Signage & Video Walls for Workplace Wellbeing

In an era where wellness is at the heart of workspace innovation, the fusion of nature-inspired design with modern technology is transforming commercial properties into sanctuaries of productivity and relaxation. One particularly powerful approach is the integration of Shinrin-yoku—the Japanese practice of “forest bathing”—into interior design through digital signage and immersive video wall systems.

This article explores how applying Shinrin-yoku concepts and biophilic elements in your office spaces—combined with immersive tech—can create meaningful, restorative environments that support employee health, productivity, and overall tenant satisfaction.

What is Shinrin-yoku?

Originating in Japan, Shinrin-yoku means “taking in the forest atmosphere” or “forest bathing.” It's not about hiking or exercising, but rather mindfully immersing oneself in natural surroundings to reduce stress and restore mental clarity. Research has linked Shinrin-yoku to:

• Lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels

• Reduced blood pressure

• Improved focus and mood

• Enhanced immune response

Bringing these effects indoors—especially in urban office environments—offers tenants a rare and valuable opportunity to reconnect with nature, even without stepping outside.

Merging Shinrin-yoku with Digital Signage & Video Walls

While most office buildings can’t plant a forest in their lobby, immersive digital technology bridges the gap. Large-format video walls, ambient digital signage, and surround-sound systems can recreate the soothing sights and sounds of nature throughout interior spaces.

Examples of nature-inspired digital installations:

• Video walls in wellness rooms displaying slow-motion forest landscapes, waterfalls, or sunrise views.

• Interactive digital signage in lobbies playing animated flora, bird sounds, or changing seasons.

• Multi-sensory corridors using synchronized lighting and ambient sound to simulate forest walks.

• Breakroom screens showing calming nature clips paired with soft music or silence.

These elements can be updated seasonally or customized to match the design intent of a given space—making your property not just smart, but sensitively responsive to human wellbeing.

Benefits of Biophilic, Nature-Infused Spaces

Implementing Shinrin-yoku and biophilic design principles using immersive digital elements has far-reaching benefits across various interior spaces:

1. Wellness & Relaxation Rooms

• Offer tenants a space to decompress or meditate.

• Nature imagery and audio reduces mental fatigue and promotes mindfulness.

2. Mother’s & Nursing Rooms

• Soothing, natural backdrops help create a private, calming environment.

• Digital walls can simulate daylight or gently moving scenery, reducing stress for new mothers.

3. Fitness & Gym Areas

• Forest trails, oceanscapes, or mountaintop views projected on video walls can enhance the ambiance and motivation during workouts.

• Encourages physical movement in an inspiring and energizing setting.

4. Meeting Rooms & Collaboration Zones

• Reduce tension during high-stakes meetings with calming natural backgrounds.

• Nature scenes have been shown to boost creativity and reduce workplace conflict.

5. Common Areas, Lounges & Cafés

• Encourages casual gatherings in pleasant, mentally restorative settings.

• Makes shared spaces feel more like retreats than waiting rooms.

Creating a Holistic Amenity Package

Integrating Shinrin-yoku-inspired design elements complements other modern office amenities like:

• Flexible coworking spaces

• On-demand conference room booking systems

• Digital communication displays

• Package pickup kiosks

• Smart access control and hybrid work tools

Together, these create a seamless experience that balances high tech with high touch—offering tenants not just a place to work, but a place to thrive.

The Takeaway: Wellness is the New Luxury

In competitive commercial real estate markets, properties that prioritize wellbeing stand apart. By incorporating Shinrin-yoku and biophilic design into digital signage strategies, you elevate your space beyond functionality—toward tranquility, creativity, and connection.

Ready to bring nature to your tenants—without the landscaping bill?
The Navigo® team can help you implement immersive digital signage and video wall solutions that make Shinrin-yoku a part of your property’s everyday experience.

Let’s design your digital nature experience.
Contact us today to connect with our team and explore what’s possible.