FOREST BATHING IS A SIMPLE AND EFFECTIVE MINDFULNESS-BASED PRACTISE OF WALKING SLOWLY AND ATTENTIVELY IN NATURE AND CONNECTING WITH THE ENVIRONMENT THROUGH ALL OF YOUR SENSES.
Join me for this very special, annual workshop where we get to immerse ourselves into the breathtaking beauty of the bluebells.
Places are just ยฃ29 per person for a 3-hour workshop that includes wild or herbal tea and plant-based snacks
Due to popular demand I have added an afternoon session on this day as the morning session is already sold out.
Morning Session
10am - 1pm
Afternoon Session
3 - 6pm
Staffhurst Wood is famous for its stunning carpet of bluebells that appear late April/Early May* and grace us with their beauty for a few fleeting weeks.
They are a beautiful symbol of the impermanence of life, beauty and the cycle of creation. What we forget is that bluebells are always there and are always contributing to the matrix of the Forest and have reached their exquisite peak when they flower.
The term Forest Bathing means to bathe in the atmosphere of the Forest and what better time than to bathe in the beauty of the bluebells? During this relaxing and peaceful workshop you will be offered simple reflective invitations that allow you to connect more deeply with the environment. This powerful practice has been proven to bring wonderful physical and mental health benefits and offers an important opportunity to switch off from the man-made world and come home to the wonder of Mother Nature.
The exchange for this workshop is ยฃ29 and places are limited so book early to ensure you secure your space
*Please note that the flowering of bluebells can alter from year to year so there is never a complete guarantee but in my experience they are usually out by the end of April.
WHAT IS FOREST BATHING?
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 well-being 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
9:50am - Meet at Staffhurst Wood (full location details provided)
10:00am - Workshop begins
12:15pm - Gather for relaxed reflection time with herbal or foraged teas and healthy plant-based treats.
1:00pm - 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
ยฃ29 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.