Thermengruppe Josef Wund - Forest Bathing: Lupuna
Pushing the boundaries of experiential wellness in one of the world's largest spa groups
The Challenge
Experiential wellness experiences aim to go beyond traditional treatments, blending technology with nature to enhance mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Thermengruppe Josef Wund, considered the world's leading developer and operator of thermal spas and bathing facilities, wanted to create a next-level immersive experience that bridged the gap between nature’s calming effects and modern technology. The challenge was to develop an experience that would not only relax and de-stress participants but also help them reconnect with nature in a meaningful way.
.avif)
The Challenge
Experiential wellness experiences aim to go beyond traditional treatments, blending technology with nature to enhance mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. Thermengruppe Josef Wund, considered the world's leading developer and operator of thermal spas and bathing facilities, wanted to create a next-level immersive experience that bridged the gap between nature’s calming effects and modern technology. The challenge was to develop an experience that would not only relax and de-stress participants but also help them reconnect with nature in a meaningful way.
The Solution
To achieve this, we brought in world renowned immersive arts collective, Marshmallow Laser Feast, to design an immersive forest bathing journey, drawing inspiration from the Amazon rainforest.
And thus Lupuna was born - a sensory narrative compressing 24 hours in the Amazonr ainforest into a 24-minute experience.
Inspired by the ancient Japanese tradition of ‘Shinrin-yoku’—or 'forest bathing'—which has been scientifically acclaimed as a beneficial practice for both physical and mental well-being, the rooms offer an immersive, eyes-open meditation. Participants are encouraged to recline, gaze upward, and immerse themselves in the splendour of the tropical rainforest as they journey through a typical day in its vibrant life.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a physical waterfall, leading them into a simulated tropical downpour where rain machines and spatial audio envelop their senses in a cleansing white noise—a sensory reset. They are then invited to relax in temperature-controlled, vibroacoustic circular furniture resembling lilypads while gazing up at a projection depicting a majestic kapok (lupuna) tree against the backdrop of the Amazonian sky.
The Solution
To achieve this, we brought in world renowned immersive arts collective, Marshmallow Laser Feast, to design an immersive forest bathing journey, drawing inspiration from the Amazon rainforest.
And thus Lupuna was born - a sensory narrative compressing 24 hours in the Amazonr ainforest into a 24-minute experience.
Inspired by the ancient Japanese tradition of ‘Shinrin-yoku’—or 'forest bathing'—which has been scientifically acclaimed as a beneficial practice for both physical and mental well-being, the rooms offer an immersive, eyes-open meditation. Participants are encouraged to recline, gaze upward, and immerse themselves in the splendour of the tropical rainforest as they journey through a typical day in its vibrant life.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted with a physical waterfall, leading them into a simulated tropical downpour where rain machines and spatial audio envelop their senses in a cleansing white noise—a sensory reset. They are then invited to relax in temperature-controlled, vibroacoustic circular furniture resembling lilypads while gazing up at a projection depicting a majestic kapok (lupuna) tree against the backdrop of the Amazonian sky.
The Outcome
The research we later conducted demonstrated that Lupuna significantly reduced stress, anxiety, and physical tension while promoting mental clarity. Over 81% of participants reported feeling less anxious, and many experienced a stronger connection with nature.
Biometric data showed heart rate reduction and improved heart rate variability, indicating enhanced emotional regulation. EEG data also demonstrated a shift toward meditative brainwave states, indicating that the experience facilitated a restorative mental state.
The immersive experience demonstrated the effectiveness of combining sensory design and biophilic elements in promoting mental and emotional well-being, fostering a deeper connection with nature, and enhancing relaxation.
