~ Project adopted by the Ministry of the Environment's "Cooperative Model Study on the Effectiveness of New Touji Cures" ~ Multifaceted examination of the impact of hot spring care with childcare on postpartum depression symptoms.
- The following is content from the press release -
(Headquarters: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo; President: Nao Tsukagoshi; hereinafter referred to as "Mamakuoria") will conduct a groundbreaking research project to utilize traditional Japanese onsen and hot spring cure culture for modern postpartum care for mothers suffering from postpartum depression. As part of health tourism utilizing natural environmental resources promoted by the Ministry of the Environment, the project will scientifically examine the effects of "hot spring care with childcare" on the physical and mental recovery of mothers.
This study is an advanced effort to explore the possibility of a new model of care utilizing the natural resource of hot springs in addition to conventional postpartum care. The Ministry of the Environment's "Cooperative Model Study on the Effectiveness of New Hot Spring Cures" and under the supervision of Dr. Hiroshi Murakami, Department of Perinatal and Mental Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine,We will conduct a 2-day/1-night research tour and a month-long follow-up survey at a hot spring resort in Nagano Prefecture. We are recruiting participants for the monitoring.
Background and Purpose of the Study
Postpartum depression, which is estimated to affect approximately 10-151 TP6T of women after childbirth, is a serious social issue that can have long-term effects on the mother's own distress as well as on the mother-child relationship, marital relations, and child development. On the other hand, Japan has a rich cultural resource of "hot springs and hot-spring cures," which have been used since ancient times for physical and mental recovery and health promotion.
This study will use objective physiological and psychological data to examine the effects of "hot spring care with childcare," which combines the thermal, hydraulic, and buoyancy effects of hot spring bathing, the chemical effects of hot spring ingredients, and the relaxation effects of the natural environment, on reducing postpartum depression symptoms and on physical and mental recovery.
Representative Comment
Since 2022, we have been operating an online counseling and online community for postpartum women, as well as a media site, and proposing policies for perinatal families to local governments.
Based on the results of this survey, we hope to propose one method of postpartum care that local governments are suffering from a lack of bearers and mechanisms. We would be happy if we could be of help to as many women and families as possible who are suffering. (Representative, Tsukagoshi)
Research Tour Summary
Program Contents (tentative)
- Hot spring bathing under expert guidance (scheduled twice during the 2-day 1-night stay)
- Childcare services by qualified childcare professionals
- Individual consultation with a midwife
- Group work by the organizer (counselor)
- Walking and forest bathing in a natural environment
- Nutritionally balanced meals with attention to local production for local consumption
Medical Supervision System
Supervisor: Dr. Hiroshi Murakami, Department of Perinatal Psychosomatic Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine
Complete emergency response plan
Implementation system that prioritizes participant safety
Scientific measurement items] *Under consideration
The study will examine the effectiveness of spa care from multiple perspectives using the following scientific indicators
Psychological evaluation (planned)
- Mood state (POMS2)
- Anxiety Symptoms (HADS)
- Parenting Stress (PSI-SF)
- Sleep quality (PSQI)
Physiological evaluation (planned)
- Autonomic nerve activity (heart rate variability analysis)
- Stress hormone (salivary amylase)
- Objective sleep assessment (actigraph)
- Physical symptoms (VAS evaluation of back pain, etc.)
Expected Results] Creation of Scientific Evidence
We will demonstrate with objective data that the natural environmental resource of hot springs can be an effective non-drug intervention for the social issue of postpartum depression.
Presentation of new business models
We will examine the feasibility of "hot spring spa cures with childcare" as high value-added wellness tourism and propose new ways to utilize hot spring resorts.
Contribution to policy making
We will provide concrete data showing "nature's contribution to health" in the "National Parks Enjoyment Project" promoted by the Ministry of the Environment and in policies aimed at realizing a society in harmony with nature.
Rediscovering the Value of Japanese Onsen Culture
We will reconstruct traditional hot-spring cure culture to meet modern needs and disseminate its value both domestically and internationally.
About the Call for Participants
Application period
September 22, 2025 (Monday) - October 22, 2025 (Wednesday) *Close as soon as eligible participants are gathered.
How to apply
Please apply using the application form on the application page below.
URL:. https://onsen-sango-care-monitor202511.peatix.com
Selection Process
- Pre-screening (online application form)
- Safety evaluation by Dr. Hiroshi Murakami, Department of Perinatal Psychosomatic Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine
- Detailed explanation and consent for participation in research
Contact Us
Research Office: info@mamaqualia.com (weekdays 10:00-17:00)
Ethical Considerations
The protection of the human rights and safety of the participants are the highest priorities of this research, and the following considerations will be taken into account.
- Participation by free will based on sufficient explanation
- Guarantee of the right to withdraw from participation in research at any time
- Strict control of personal information
- Safety management system by medical specialists
Research System
Project Management: Nao Tsukagoshi, President, MamaQualia Inc.
Medical Supervisor: Dr. Hiroshi Murakami, Department of Perinatal Mental Medicine, Shinshu University School of Medicine
Supervision of research on hot spring effects: Kyoko Kitade, President, Spring Lab LLC
New Touji Project" organized by: Ministry of the Environment
What is the "New Touji" promoted by the Ministry of the Environment?
Shin-Touji," promoted by the Ministry of the Environment, is a modern style of staying in hot springs that goes beyond conventional hot spring treatment and incorporates a variety of resources such as local nature, history, culture, and food to refresh the body and mind.
The combination of the thermal and relaxing effects of hot springs and unique local experiences is spreading across Japan as a new approach to reduce stress and promote health, while at the same time communicating the attractiveness and vitality of the region.
https://www.env.go.jp/nature/onsen/spa/index.html
[Future development
The data obtained from this study will be submitted as a report to the Ministry of the Environment's "New Touji" project to build a model case for the development of postpartum care programs in hot spring resorts and local governments nationwide. In the future, we plan to make policy recommendations to the Postpartum Care Project of the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare and the Administration for Children and Families, and to develop a new wellness tourism business nationwide that makes maximum use of "existing local resources.
About Us
Company name: MamaQualia Inc.
Location: 2F-C, Shibuya Dogenzaka Tokyu Building, 1-10-8 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0043, Japan
Establishment: November 1, 2022
Business activities: Operation of family mental care media "famitasu," individual counseling/peer counseling specifically for postpartum depressed mothers, and management of seminars on mental health.
Representative Director: Nao Tsukagoshi
URL:https://mamaqualia.com/
Location: Tokyo, Japan Tazawa Onsen, Nagano Prefecture Fujiya
Period: Wednesday, November 26 and Thursday, November 27, 20251 night and 2 days
+1 month posterior survey (wearable device data and online questionnaire format)
Number of applicants: 1 Approx. 10 persons
Participation fee: $25.00 Free of charge (*Transportation to the site is at your own expense)
Subjects:.