Why the Forest of Dean is the perfect prescription to de-stress and unwind

The hidden gem that it is, The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley are great for those seeking serenity and calm, and a break from the hustle and bustle of the day-to-day, especially for those coming from more urban settings. A great way to start is by booking a stay that offers you a peaceful and relaxing place to unwind, such as Nuthatch Retreat, where you can already begin to switch off.

So why is nature a good tonic?

It is well documented that being amongst trees and nature are good for our health and mental wellbeing and there is mounting evidence that the combination of the sound of birdsong and the sight and smell of the trees can help ease stress, reduce high blood pressure and treat anxiety and depression. In fact, scientists are increasingly investigating the influence that pheromones released by trees have on the human nervous system, in particular the parasympathetic nervous system - our ‘rest and relaxation’ mode which counters the ‘fight or flight’ state we often exist in when life is busy and stressful.

Walking in nature needn’t be a strenuous activity and a gentle stroll or short walk can be enough to feel the benefits. You could also book a session of ‘Forest Bathing’ to help you fully immerse yourself in what nature has to offer or have a relaxation Float first, to set you up for an even more magical experience when you wander in the ancient woodland.

For those looking for a more active experience amongst the trees, there are endless trails and routes to explore including those that are more accessible or accessed by hiring an off-road mobility scooter. You can, of-course, also experience these benefits from other activities in the forest. Explore by bike or swing amongst the canopy, or simply enjoy a picnic of local delights surrounded by green at one of the various sites across the area.

And the cherry on the cake?

A relaxing holiday home is the ideal place to return to after soaking up all the benefits of the forest and Nuthatch Retreat offers this in abundance. From the moment you arrive, with calming aromas wafting in the hallway, you’ll feel like you’ve entered a spa. The stunning views offer something special, no matter the season, whether observed through the expansive windows, or from the terrace overlooking the beautifully planted gardens which wrap around you and continue the sense of being immersed in nature.

Keep up the mindful activities to maintain the stress-relieving effects of your forest visit by reading a book on the window seat, doing a jigsaw puzzle on the patio and taking a bath outside in the dappled sunlight, amongst the sound of birdsong and the smell of essential oils. Or simply take an afternoon snooze after exploring the area. It’s the kind of place you’ll never want to leave and makes the de-stressing and unwinding all the more pleasurable. You could even book yourself a massage treatment nearby to complete the package.

Fancy something creative to aid your wellbeing further?

Perhaps because the forest is such a nurturing place, there are many artists and makers who call it home. Many offer creative workshops and experiences, all of which contribute to positive wellbeing. Pick some locally grown blooms at a flower farm and learn how to arrange them or throw a pot with a local maker. During the summer months there’s often an arts trail on, too, where you can get inspired by visiting the creatives in the area. It will all bring you joy and enormous satisfaction, or at least a little distraction from all you’ve stepped away from during your stay.