Calling on early risers to join me for my FIRST dawn chorus session of the year.
a blissful 2.5 hour Forest Bathing workshop to bathe in the incredible sounds of the dawn chorus and connect with that magical sense of a new day dawning.
A gentle guided journey through the Forest with mindfulness exercises and space to allow ourselves to simply BE. We will immerse ourselves in Nature and let the birdsong fill our ears and hearts.
Places are just Β£25 per person for this 2.5-hour workshop that includes wild or herbal tea and plant-based snacks.
FOREST BATHING IS A SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE MINDFULNESS-BASED PRACTICE OF WALKING SLOWLY AND ATTENTIVELY IN NATURE AND CONNECTING WITH THE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH ALL OF YOUR SENSES.
The name Forest Bathing is a translation of the Japanese term 'Shinrin Yoku' which literally means Forest Bath. the meaning of this is to bathe in the atmosphere of the Forest and does not refer to any physical kind of swimming or bathing.
The Japanese began Forest bathing back in the 80s and today there are Forest Bathing Guides all over the world guiding people back into Nature to find peace, deep relaxation, connection and meaning. The practice has now been subject to a vast amount of research and has been scientifically proven to be an effective support for mental health illness and physical/emotional health and wellbeing too.
What to expect
In a forest bathing session, you will be invited to connect with Nature through a variety of simple exercises or reflections. This usually involves participants spending time quietly sitting or standing and observing the environment around them. As the guide, I share the principles and insights of the practice and invite you to try simple sensory exercises. The forest is very much the therapist and what people see, feel, and experience is unique to the individual. Some exercises are quiet and introspective whilst others are more fun and playful.
There are opportunities to share insights and observations but this is not expected or forced. I also hold a tea ceremony at the end with some healthy snacks.
Places are limited as group sizes are kept small. Staffhurst Wood is very flat and the distance covered is short because the focus is on slowing down and paying attention. This makes it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. No previous experience in mindfulness or forest bathing is required. All are welcome.
Please note there are no toilet facilities at Staffhurst wood so we go wild instead.
Schedule
6:20am - Meet at Staffhurst Wood (full location details provided)
6:30am - Workshop begins
8:30am - Gather for relaxed reflection time with herbal or foraged teas and healthy plant-based treats.
9:00am - Close
What to wear and bring
Sensible comfortable clothes and supportive shoes
Waterproof jacket advisable in case of light showers
Water to stay hydrated
I will provide some snacks but you are welcome to bring additional
I provide a waterproof sit mat
In every Forest Bathing workshop, I have held, I am always deeply grateful to see a look of peace and contentment on the faces of the participants as they leave the forest. In our fast-paced lives, we rarely get the chance to find this kind of tranquillity and connection and it can be a very moving and comforting experience.
BOOKING INFO
Β£25 PER PERSON INC REFRESHMENTS
You can book your place via the button below.
When you book you will receive a confirmation email with a link to a health and safety form. You will also receive a reminder email a few days before the event.