Forest Bathe

Forest Bathing (also called Forest Therapy or Forest Medicine) translated from the Japanese Shinrin-Yoku, is a slow walking activity that prioritises sensory experiences over intellectual ones and is designed to be pleasurable and relaxing. Small (2km), tranquil, Forest of Dean sites are carefully selected by Carina, a local, experienced and certified Forest Therapy Guide.

Carina will contact you before meeting and greeting you at a local cafe or wellbeing centre. She will guide you/drive you (2-5mins) to the FE approved and managed Forest site. She will briefly explain the scientific basis from which Forest Bathing has emerged as a dynamic practice from Japan, while you 'bathe' (fully clothed), unwind and breathe in the Forest atmosphere all around you. After explaining the three part (3hr) structure of the course, Carina will lead you through a standard sequence and offer short (5-20 mins), sensory invitations along the way that can be done whilst wondering/sitting in the Forest, along the grassy paths, all close to (500m) a central base. Forest Bathers are free to fall asleep at any time, fanned by the low-lying branches of the trees, knowing the guide is close by. The course ends with a foraged 'tea ceremony' and light snacks.

Children aged 8 or over are welcome.

Carina is Forestry England (FE) licenced to carry out Forest Bathing on Forestry England land.

Forest Bathing comes from a scientific basis of research. It has been shown to lower blood pressure, boost the immune system, aid sleep, lessen anxiety and depression and boost feelings of well-being, bringing the nervous system into balance amongst other things.

Getting to us

Road: Accessible from most major motorway networks and roads. Look out for the brown tourist information signs to The Dean Heritage Centre as you drive into the Forest of Dean.

Meeting point and café: Dean Heritage Centre, Camp Mill, Soudley, Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, GL14 2UB

Please be aware that the postcode will take you just beyond the centre’s actual location when coming from the North and West, but keep your eyes peeled for the DHC entrance sign!

Public Transport: Bevan Bus number 717 between Cinderford and Lydney. The Dean Heritage Centre is a request stop. Please visit their website for a timetable of their services. Cinderford or Lydney travel info: Traveline http://www.traveline.info/. Click on the 'South West' section and plan your journey door-to-door using your postcode and The Dean Heritage Centre (GL14 2UB).