Festive Forest Bathing

What is Forest Bathing?

Shinrin-yoku is a term that means "taking in the forest atmosphere" or "forest bathing" was developed in Japan during the 1980s and has become a cornerstone of preventive health care and healing in Japanese medicine.

Shinrin-Yoku is an evidence-based approach to encouraging people to engage with the natural world – particularly trees; and demonstrating through clinical testing and research the physical and immunological benefits of contact with Nature.

This is not exercise, or hiking, or jogging. It is simply being in nature, connecting with it through our senses of sight, hearing, taste, smell, and touch. Shinrin-yoku is like a bridge. By opening our senses, it bridges the gap between us and the natural world.

Join a small group of Forest Bathers to connect deeply with yourself and nature:

• We’ll explore hidden paths and magical woodlands at Wendover Woods, connecting with the life and energy of the trees, leaves, plants, soil, singing birds and more.
• We'll take a mindfulness walk to open our awareness, bathing in the power and energy of Mother Nature.
• We’ll gather fallen items from nature to make a ritual item for the festive season.
• You are invited to bring a flask of tea, coffee or hot chocolate to enjoy as we pause and share the beauty of being outside together.
• This event will go ahead no matter rain or shine, so please dress in suitable warm outdoor clothing and footwear that may get dirty.

The scientifically proven benefits of Shinrin-yoku include:

·  Boosted immune system functioning, with an increase in the count of the body's Natural Killer (NK) cells.

·  Reduced blood pressure

·  Reduced stress

·  Improved mood

·  Increased ability to focus, even in children with ADHD

·  Accelerated recovery from surgery or illness

·  Increased energy level

·  Improved sleep

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A message from Forestry England

Whilst practising forest bathing and enjoying the calm and quiet environment that trees and forests create, we would like everyone to understand and know that:

• The woodland that they visited is part of the nation’s forests, meaning that it belongs to everyone, and it is cared for and managed by Forestry England.
• The importance of trees, woodlands and forests and the need for sustainable forest management.
• Forestry England manages the woodland for
  • the enjoyment of people, for walking, cycling, horse-riding and many more recreational activities
  • to create, protect and restore habitats for wildlife
  • to continue to provide a sustainable production of timber for future generations.

Refunds

Apologies, we are unable to offer refunds. However, if you can no longer make it, you are welcome to transfer your ticket to a friend and just let us know in advance.