About Us
* Live well with trees * Discover shinrin-yoku – and increase your health and wellbeing with a forest bathing session in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire.
Shinrin-yoku is the practice of bathing all the senses whilst taking in the forest atmosphere. It's a slow practice; this session involving walking no more than 2km. Shinrin-yoku is restorative, both mentally and physically, like a bath.
Regular forest bathing lowers blood pressure, reduces stress, improves empathy and creativity, and boosts our immune systems!
What to expect...
Your experience will be guided by trained forest therapy guide Carina Greenwood.
- Carina will offer four invitations; lasting between 10 and 20 minutes designed to connect you with the surroundings, to tune in your senses.
- A 'foraged tea' ceremony in the forest and some light, healthy snacks.
Where does Shinrin-yoku come from?
Shinrin-yoku (森林浴) originated in Japan. As a term it was invented in 1982 by the then Director General of The Agency of Agriculture and Forestry and Fisheries of Japan, Tomohide Akiyama, who stated that people in Japan were in need of healing through nature.
About the site
This Forestry England site is peaceful and nestled within a secluded mixed woodland setting, overlooking the tree canopy and the surrounding Forest of Dean. You will not go far from this single gently sloping forest track, ensuring easy navigation. Relax and be fanned by the low hanging branches of beech trees as you stroll between soft green carpets of moss. Here you can find stillness and calm.
Getting there:
- Car: Free parking
- Train: Lydney station is a twenty- minute taxi ride away.
- Or by bike.
Facilities:
- Restaurant/Café: at The Dean Heritage Centre, Soudley, 5- minute drive away.
- Toilets: Accessible toilets (from the road) at The Dean Heritage Centre.
FAQs
Is it a solo or group thing?
It’s a reflective experience. Group sizes are intentionally small, typically 4-6 people, making it a great gift for your partner, friend, or as a couple.
Who is it for?
Unlike many other forest activities, it’s especially suitable for those who may not choose normally to go for a walk in the woods or exert themselves. It’s not necessary to be particularly fit. It’s gentle, inclusive, pleasurable and welcoming – perfect for those convalescing or taking time out from busy lives.
Children aged 8 or over are welcome.
What to bring?
Forest bathing is slow. It’s not a physically exerting activity, but it is outside for the duration, so it’s very important to stay warm. More clothes are needed than for a normal walk in the woods.
- Layers of clothing which can go in a back pack, along with waterproof clothing, plus walking boots or trainers.
- A notepad or sketchbook (if you wish).
How can I contact the organiser?
You can contact Carina directly by emailing carina@forestbathe.co.uk. Carina will get in touch with you before the event via email.
Can a forest bathing experience cater for my specific mental of physical health needs?
Please inform Carina if you think there is anything she should be aware of regarding your mental or physical health. You can do this by filling out the brief questionnaire you will receive by email shortly after booking. Please check your junk emails if it has not arrived or contact Carina.
She will make every effort to make sure that your needs are catered for and is happy to chat to you about this prior to booking if you have questions or concerns at carina@forestbathe.co.uk.
Book Tickets
Guide Prices
Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
---|---|
Ticket | £26.00 per adult |
Note: Prices are a guide only and may change on a daily basis.
Book Tickets Online
Facilities
Children
- Children welcome
Groups
- Facilities for groups
Parking
- Free Parking