Heard the term forest bathing, but feeling a little confused about what it actually means? Here’s your quick cheatsheet on everything you need to know.
The best forest bathing retreats in the UK
1. Nature Immersion Escape at South Lodge, Sussex
Guided by Shinrin-Yoku expert Helena Skoog, South Lodge‘s nature immersion experience in West Sussex is the perfect beginner-friendly introduction to forest bathing. With retreats in April, July and October, the full-day, group-based experience sees you take a guided walk through the tree-lined grounds with mindful meditation based on the seasonal changes you see around you. There’s also a Qigong breathing and meditation session, dedicated time in the hotel’s gorgeous spa, and a cosy room for the night included in the package, to really boost your sense of inner calm.
2. Forest Retreats at Hill Farm Tintern, Wales
Run by husband-and-wife team Hayley and Tom, Forest Retreats is a yoga and wellbeing retreat nestled in the ancient Welsh woodlands, and the space really does cocoon you in a sense of instant relaxation. There’s a full programme of wellness activities to try during a stay (including family-friendly retreats), but the two-and-a-half hour guided forest bathing walk is a highlight even if you are there for a more flying visit. Tailored around the sights, smells, textures and tastes of the forest around you, the beginner-friendly meditative experience is perfect for those with super busy minds.
3. Forest Bathe at Armathwaite Hall, Lake District
Set in 400-acres of deer park and woodland, and bordered by the calming waters of Bassenthwaite Lake, Armathwaite Hall is one of the original English stately homes. That makes it a wonderful place to recharge among the ancient trees. You start your two-hour experience by walking through an archway of trees, marking the moment you are encouraged to leave your worries behind, before starting a meditative practice that is filled with chances to reflect and reconnect. There are moon and star bathing packages too, to help you soak up the idyllic setting amongst a star lit sky.
4. ReWild Yourself at Lime Wood
The New Forest has been voted the number one National Park in Europe – and now you can rest and recharge in the magic of the ancient woodland with the help of Lime Wood’s Wild Wanderings retreat. A beginner-friendly guide to reconnecting with nature, the day involves a guided forest immersion walk, breathwork and sound healing sessions, plus downtime in the Herb House spa, so it is a literal breath of fresh air for your mind, body and soul. In even better news, all ReWild Yourself Retreat attendees get a 10 per cent discount on all treatments booked at the end of the retreat.
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