Forest bathing

Woman standing in woodland at sunset

Forest bathing

Forest bathing - the Japanese practice of relaxation in the forest

Known in Japan as shinrin yoku, being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.

Join a guided forest bathing session at specific forests below or read our guide to start forest bathing and try forest bathing in any of our beautiful forest locations.

Guided forest bathing

Forest Bathing at Whinlatter-1

Family forest bathing: A private forest bathing session tailored just for you and your family, connecting with nature and each other. Includes tea ceremony (or hot chocolate and marshmallows). Suitable  for all ages. Session time 2.5 -3 hours. £150 per family (up to 6 people.

Women in pink coat walking through spring woodland

Immerse yourself in the forest. Tune into your senses. Reconnect with nature.

Time spent under the canopy of trees gives us a mental and physical lift. With research showing a wide range of potential benefits, forest bathing is the perfect activity if you're looking to boost wellbeing, give your immune system a helping hand, or simply unwind and relax.

Please check the Wilder Lives website for availability and to find out more.

Forest Bathing
Fitness and wellbeing activities

The Forest Bathing Institute brings 2-hour Forest Bathing+ nature based wellness sessions to Alice Holt Forest.

Forest Bathing+ is a comprehensive therapeutic form of forest bathing developed in co-operation with numerous universities across the UK, professors, doctors, and scientists.

Women with blue backpack walking through spring woodland
Fitness and wellbeing activities

What is forest bathing?

This Japanese practice is a process of relaxation; known in Japan as shinrin yoku. The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.

Here in the Forest of Dean, we have several certified guides that can lead you through the fundamental principles of the practice.

Sunlight shining through woodland scenery

Join qualified forest bathing guide Nicky from Sound and Ground for a forest bathing or sound bath session at High Lodge.

Dates for 2024 have landed - Find a wellness session

What to expect

Forest bathing is slow, mindful time ‘immersing’ yourself in the forest atmosphere for health and wellbeing, no swimsuit required!

Forest bathing
Fitness and wellbeing activities

The Forest Bathing Institute brings 2-hour Forest Bathing+ nature based wellness sessions to West Walk.

Forest Bathing+ is a comprehensive therapeutic form of forest bathing developed in co-operation with numerous universities across the UK, professors, doctors, and scientists.

Women in pink coat walking through spring woodland
Fitness and wellbeing activities

Join certified forest therapy practitioner and forest bathing guide, Gina from Adaptable By Design for this nature-immersive wellness experience in Rendlesham Forest.

Dates for 2024

20 and 23 March, 17 and 20 April. 

What to expect

Forest bathing is a slow, gentle, sensory-immersive walk where you soak up the atmosphere of the natural environment. It is like no walk you’ve ever experienced!