Welcome to our post about Forest Bathing…we are pleased you are here.

Louise and I have been practicing Forest Bathing together for a few years now, learning a variety of “invitations”, exploring different natural spaces in our neighbourhood and inviting clients and friends along at times. We’ve decided Forest Bathing fits beautifully with our Occupational Therapy work as a meaningful and restorative activity, so we thought we’d tell you about it.

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing is a casual but intentional experience among the trees – unburdened by expectations and oriented to simple pleasure. It is an immersive experience where we walk slowly or sit quietly and focus our senses (internal and external) on the many ways the forest surrounds us, touches us, nurtures us and even speaks to us.

In Forest Bathing you will be invited to…

“Feel the breeze on your skin”

“See the movement of the trees”

“Hear the symphony of the stream”

“Notice how your body is responding to nature”… and much, much more.

Your senses bring you into the present moment and the forest uses it’s healing power to support your wellbeing.

How does a Forest Bathing session go?

We always start with a karakia and honoring the whenua. Then there’s a short talk about the science and health benefits of forest bathing. A session will last anywhere between 90 minutes and 3 hours and during this time you will be guided in a selection of “invitations” or activities that help you connect with the forest. These might be sensory, imaginative or creative – (drawing, poetry). Sometimes we do a guided meditation and there is always plenty of simply noticing the intricacies and complexities of the forest world.

At the end, we thank the forest and finish with a sharing circle and a cup of tea.

What will I get out of Forest Bathing?

There is an abundance of evidence about the physical and mental benefits of Forest Bathing. In a short session you will experience relaxation, reduced stress, a focussed mind, improved immunity, possibly increased cancer protection, positive emotion, a sense of connection with the natural world, maybe some deep insights, and at the end of the day you may find you “sleep like a log”.

Is it weird or ‘woo-woo’?

Forest Bathing is completely backed by science. There are many published studies investigating the effects of forest environments on human health. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9665958/ Connecting with the natural environment is something that humans are instinctively wired to do and have been doing for millennia. It’s only in recent history that we have lost our connection with nature due to urbanisation, high use of technology and our busy lifestyles.

Some of the invitations in Forest Bathing might be unfamiliar to you, and I encourage you to come with curiosity and an open mind.

Do I have to be physically fit?

No. Forest Bathing is not hiking. It is slow, gentle and quiet. It is inclusive of all levels of physical, intellectual and sensory abilities. Louise and I always choose places that are easily accessed by our companions.

Will I get wet – cold – dirty?

Maybe a little bit. Less so if you wear a jacket and sensible shoes. Forest Bathing can be done in all seasons, so dress accordingly. We will supply a sitting pad. Unlike other forms of bathing – you can keep your clothes on.

Why is it called Forest Bathing?

The Japanese have put Forest Bathing on the map so to speak. Their term for it is Shinrin-yoku  which translates as Forest Bathing. It is also referred to as Forest Therapy or Nature Therapy.

Is this therapy?

Forest Bathing is not therapy in that it has no goal of any particular healing. It is however an activity that has powerful therapeutic benefits. While Louise and I are Occupational Therapists, in Forest Bathing we are simply your guides. The forest does the work…The forest is the therapist.

Keen to join us?

If you’d like to give Forest Bathing a try, get in touch with Catherine or Louise to find out when we are next doing a session.