Forest Bathing

Forest bathing is the practice of intentionally connecting with nature to release stress and tension, to clear your mind and to enable your being to feel refreshed and energised. Forest bathing is not exercise (and you probably will not walk very far), it is about connecting with the natural world.

 

I am currently training with Sonya Dibbin of Adore Your Outdoors and will be fully qualified to hold Forest Bathing sessions later this year. I can’t wait to share them with you, it really is the most beautiful, life-enhancing experience.

What is Forest Bathing

Forest bathing comes from the Japanese concept called shinrin-yoku, a term introduced in 1982 by the Japanese Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.  In Japanese, shinrin means ‘forest’ and yoku means ‘bath’ and so shinrin-yoko means forest bathing, an activity which invites us to take in the forest through our senses.  

During a forest bathing session, you immerse yourself in the forest environment as you wander mindfully and at a leisurely pace. You engage your senses, focusing on what you can see, hear, touch, smell and even taste. As you move in harmony with nature, your nervous system resets itself and you truly relax, allowing your body and mind the rest it needs.

What are the benefits of Forest Bathing?

Forest Bathing offers health benefits as recorded in evidence based, scientific research. Nature can help us to heal by reducing stress, lowering blood pressure, boosting the immune system,  improving mood, raising energy levels and increased quality of sleep.

 

  • You will join a group and we will start by awakening your senses.

    ֍   We will notice what we can see around us

    ֍   We will listen to what can be heard near and far away

    ֍   We will inhale the scent of nature around us

    ֍   We will feel the elements and touch items in nature around us.

    You will be invited to join me in exploring some nature-inspired activities such as enjoying a slow walk, connecting with a tree, or mindful photography. We enjoy quiet companionship as we go through the forest bathing experience together.  At the end of the session, there will be a tea ceremony.

  • ֍   Trainers or walking boots
    ֍   Long trousers and long-sleeved top
    ֍   In winter: layers - coat/ waterproofs/ fleece/ spare layer
    ֍   In summer: a spare layer and a sunhat

  • ֍   yoga mat or waterproof picnic blanket
    ֍   camping chair if you need to sit rather than lie down
    ֍   journal and pen
    ֍   water bottle and snack
    ֍   suncream