UNPLUG. SLOW-DOWN. RELAX.
Adult Nature Connection: What is Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing, coined in Japan in the 80s as Shinrin-Yoku, is a process to reconnect with nature, reclaim your instinct, replenish your energy and find your inner calm. When we slow down and become part of nature, we begin to feel at one with it. Forest Bathing may be described as “noticing” what it is like to move quietly and unhurriedly through the forest and to immerse yourself fully in nature. We invite you to notice what a forest smells like, sounds like, feels like, tastes like and looks like.
Some of the proven benefits include: better sleep, lower stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol), increase in NK (natural killer) cells which have direct immune system benefits, lower blood pressure, increased parasympathetic nervous system/decreased sympathetic nervous system, reduced anxiety and depression.
We currently offer two courses: one Nature Immersion for all adults, and one Forest Bathing for Mamas and Papas. Scroll down for more details.
AUTUMN NATURE IMMERSION
This four-week course will make the most of September’s autumnal twilights – as we pass the equinox we will explore the woodland at dusk before gathering around the fire in darkness.
Bess Spencer has designed this course to integrate forest bathing with practices from Jon Young’s Art of Mentoring – 8 Shields. It is for those who work in nature-based education/Forest School, for others to build on their existing connection/eco-therapy practices and for people who are drawn to develop their own relationship with nature with no prior experience needed!
These experiential sessions will build familiarity with the woodland: with the trees, plants, birds and yourself within it. Your confidence, knowledge and understanding will deepen through the succession of activities which will follow a natural cycle of discovery, growth, learning and integration. Each session will include a written follow-up describing key activities and signposting further information to support you to build on the techniques you’ve encountered.
A spring/summer participant: “I learnt an increased respect for nature and what it offers. I liked the playful aspects as we don’t do this so much as adults”.
BOOKING
Who is this course for? All adults!
Where: private woodland – in the beautiful native forest in Wraxall (North Somerset Showground), BS48 1NE.
Dates/times: 6 – 8pm on 16th, 23rd, 30th September and 7th October
Cost: £50 for the full four-week course
A limited number of discounted/subsidised places will be available
To Book: via EventBrite – click here
FOREST BATHING FOR MAMAS & PAPAS
Join Gabrielle for Shinrin-Yoku: a time to connect deeply with nature, to yourself, to your baby and to other mamas and papas. Gabrielle is a yoga teacher and Forest Bathing guide (and mama to baby Georgia).
After a short introduction to Shinrin-Yoku and its benefits, you will be guided slowly through the woodland using techniques to help your body and mind relax. Meditation, breath-work, and simple exercises that use all of your senses will leave you healthier in mind and body. We will finish with a ten minute closing circle in the seated area where you can either just sit, feed your baby, or share your experience if you wish.
BOOKING
Who is this course for? For parents with their baby in a sling/pregnant mamas
Where: private Bristol Forest School woodland at Leigh Court Farm
Dates/times: Future dates TBC
Sessions are 1 hour 30, you can dip in and out following your baby’s needs. (There are outdoor spaces to change and feed, and access to a compost toilet).
Cost: £9 per session/£30 for all four sessions.
Please get in touch if your circumstances mean you would prefer to pay by energy exchange (this can be something you grow, create, make, or do).
To book: Contact Gabrielle via message on WhatsApp 07970 058 171 or email g.coope@hotmail.co.uk