Biomechanics studies how living bodies react and adapt to their mechanical environment, especially wind sways and loads. Going beyond the old theories of optimal design and constant safety, recent advances in mechanobiology have formalized mechanical signalling, living cell perception and growth responses. Due to these physiological processes, trees form wood as a support tissue only under mechanical stimulation. Growth is controlled by perceived mechanical strains, which are indeed relevant safety indicators. To apply this knowledge to forests, the aim of the ANR FOR-WIND research project is to build a mechanobiological framework suited to long periods of time and complex natural conditions. The overall objective is to introduce new indicators into forest management practices, based on the key processes of wind acclimatisation and hardening of trees to analyse how climate change, landscape structure, silviculture or tree breeding impact forest vulnerability to strong winds.