Is a nature connection practice that originated in Japan. It translates as ‘Forest bathing’ (no water is involved).
It is about spending time in nature, usually in a forest but it doesn’t have to be. Slowing down, relaxing, and tuning your senses into the natural world around you.
What to expect in a session
A time to step away from the busyness of life, a slow pace. Individual and group exercises that help you to connect to nature, calming the brain and nervous system. Some meditation and mindfulness activities, enabling you to feel relaxed and rested. A chance to explore the trees and plants around you.
Some information about why connecting with nature is so good for you. As a close to the session a cup of tea, as a chance to taste a natural plant infused tea (herbal packet tea if preferred) and reflect on the session.
Science meets meaningful connections
There is a wealth of research that shows the impact that nature connection has on improving our wellbeing. Forest bathing in particular is backed by research showing that time spent in the forest can reduce blood pressure, and symptoms relating to stress and improve the immune system.
In Japan, the religions of Shinto and Buddhism are the most commonly practised. They both have nature at their heart, holding the forest and landscape as places of worship. This may resonate with you or not, in terms of having a coming on a forest bathing session you don’t need to align with this.
What the experience does give you though is a chance to connect to yourself and the natural environment around you. Having an experience that is meaningful to you, creating a good memory, capturing a piece of stillness and calm to take back into your everyday life.
