Table 4.
Criteria and definitions for measuring recreation comforting degree.
| Dimensions & sub- criteria | Descriptions | Relevant sources |
|---|---|---|
| Physiological comforting degree (PHC) | ||
| Relaxing the body (PHC1) | Feeling the beauty of the natural environment and relaxing the body | Ohe et al.50 ; CA. |
| Breathing fresh air (PHC2) | Feeling smooth breathing and refreshment | Pereira et al.25; CA. |
| Nurturing and conditioning one’s health (PHC3) | Feeling better immunity and less physical pains | Ahmadpour et al.15 |
| Physical function training (PHC4) | Experience outdoor entertainment activities such as running, identifying flowers and plants, fishing, rowing, etc. | Wanget al.51; CA. |
| Psychological comforting degree (PSC) | ||
| Ecological aesthetic experience (PSC1) | Feeling the natural and ecological beauty of the landscape | Din et al.52;CA. |
| Attaining positive emotions (PSC2) | Can release inner emotions and have more positive emotions | Leong et al.53; CA. |
| Evoking tourism memories (PSC3) | A nostalgic journey triggered by the sights, sounds, and smells of nature, revisiting past experiences and emotions | CA. |
| Addressing psychological issues (PSC4) | Reducing mental pain and promoting emotional health in the natural environment | Lin et al.13 |
| Spiritual comforting degree (SPC) | ||
| Enhancing ecological knowledge (SPC1) | Through learning and experience, deepen personal awareness and understanding of the importance of natural ecosystems and environmental protection | CA. |
| Improve mental state (SPC2) | Profound realization of life’s essence and value through observing and experiencing the beautiful moments in life | Lin et al.13 |
| Appreciate local culture (SPC3) | The comprehension of wisdom, values, and humanistic spirit inherent in diverse regions and ethnic cultures through deep understanding and experience | CA. |
| Undergoing a spiritual cleansing (SPC4) | Originating from nature, art, philosophy, or religion, it purifies and elevates an individual’s inner world | Terzidou et al.54; CA. |
| Social comforting degree (SOC) | ||
| Sharing online (SOC1) | Proactively share travel experiences and experiences on social media | Riperet et al.55; CA. |
| Community interaction (SOC2) | Participate in local social activities to gain a sense of community and belonging | Qu et al.56; CA. |
| Reception service (SOC3) | Enjoy a caring and comfortable service experience during travel | Zhang et al.57; CA. |
| Interacting with travel companions (SOC4) | More natural, authentic, and friendly communication and cooperation with travel companions | Zhou et al.26; CA. |
CA. = content analysis (of keywords).