Have you heard of forest bathing yet? Quite possibly not. But it’s a practice that is gaining popularity all over the world and one that could benefit you for a whole host of reasons.

Forest bathing originated in Japan

The term Shinrin-Yoku was first coined back in the 1980s when Japan’s Forest Agency recognised that ‘taking in the forest atmosphere’, also known as forest bathing, had a positive impact on individual health and wellbeing. Backed up by research clearly demonstrating the therapeutic effects of spending time in a forest, the country has invested Shinrin-Yoku, promoting it as an accepted form of preventative health care and healing and establishing over 60 forest bathing trails.

It’s taken the rest of the world some time to catch up, with South Korea, Finland and the United States being early adopters. And now forest bathing has finally arrived in the UK.

What happens during forest bathing?

In a world full of internet connectivity, high tech devices glued to our hands and lives forever lived in the fast lane, forest bathing is like a dose of Nature’s own medicine. It’s gentle, slow and relaxing. Forest bathing is all about being in the present, allowing all of your senses to be alive to a forest environment. Being outside in the fresh air, going for a walk with an experienced forest bathing guide and taking part in ‘invitations’, activities that encourage greater connection with your surroundings, is calming and peaceful. If you have had any experience of meditation or mindfulness, you’ll probably be nodding by now and saying “I get it”. The more sceptical might immediately have visions of tree hugging, but don’t discount the idea just yet!

The benefits of forest bathing are impressive

On both a psychological and physiological level, forest bathing provides many health benefits. The mindfulness element has a positive effect on mental wellbeing, including reducing stress and improving concentration. It’s even been shown to be beneficial for people struggling with depression and anxiety.

Forest bathing also improves the immune system and increases energy levels. This in turn can help make you more resilient to disease and other medical conditions. From reducing high blood pressure to improving glucose levels in people with diabetes, learning how to make the most of being in a forest environment could make a huge difference to our lives.

Forest bathing at Puzzlewood

We jumped at the opportunity to introduce forest bathing to Puzzlewood. It’s a new way in which to enjoy the woods on a deeper level and leave with lasting benefits and techniques to use in the future. Puzzlewood’s forest bathing weekend course is led by a qualified forest bathing instructor and, as well as spending time in Puzzlewood, you’ll also be able to enjoy a guided walk in other parts of the Forest of Dean. The course includes staying with us in one of our cottages and is available April – June and September – October.

If you’d like to step out of the 21st century for a few days and recharge your batteries in a unique and relaxing way, why not get booked in!