New for 2025 - Forest Bathing sessions at the arboretum.
£20pp - booking essential on visit@yorkshirearboretum.org or ring 01653 648598.
Forest Bathing started in Japan in the 1980’s and is now part of the national health programme as laid out by the NHS People Plan and the NHS People Promise. These outline a number of key programmes that are in place to assist organisations to develop a culture of wellbeing, in which their workforce feel supported and well at work.
Forest Bathing is about slowing down and noticing the things in nature we so often take for granted. Just spending a few hours in nature can help you to relax by focusing on the senses in a mindful way. There is a wealth of documented evidence about the physical, mental, emotional and social benefits to connecting with nature and to each other.
Research shows that trees release powerful natural chemicals that can have many health benefits which can include: reducing blood pressure, lowering stress levels, lowering blood sugar levels, relieving problems with sleep and lifting depression - to name but a few.
Tandy Taylor will be your tutor - she has spent over 30 years working overseas on different training and educational projects in developing countries. She is a qualified Forest Bathing practitioner (recognised by the Complementary Medical Association).
Just 2 hours of Forest Bathing can have a powerful impact. The effects can stay with you for up to a week. Just slowing down, reconnecting with nature and ourselves helps to open up the senses so we really notice what’s around us. This is done through mindful walking and a few gentle activities that focus on the senses and enhance wellbeing.
NOTES FOR THE FOREST BATHING SESSION;
Please could you make sure you have a waterproof jacket and are wearing either walking boots or walking shoes. We would advise against wearing trainers as conditions could be muddy and slippery in places if it’s been raining.
You might want to carry a small daypack with water.
We can only wait 5 minutes for latecomers, after that we will leave instructions so you can find the group in The Arboretum.
If strong winds are forecast please check in advance to see if the session is still going ahead
