Mindfulness in Nature | Forest Bathing

More than just a walk amongst trees, it is the key to restoring both your sense of self and understanding of your place in the world, by immersing yourself in nature with all your senses.

“During this lazy stroll through flora and fauna, we observe, perceive and discover.”

Each of us experiences stress in a different way when we're on the treadmill of life. Unchecked, this can lead to high blood pressure, poor appetite, unregulated sleep patterns, low energy and mood.

Perhaps there is a balance in this modern world, where we are able to be present, but not overwhelmed. Plugged into technology keeps us forever searching and scrolling. Nature, however, teaches us how to be still and find peace and restoration.

Mindfulness in nature can help people to reconnect and rediscover peace within. All that is required is an open heart and the desire to be still for a while.

Hello

My name is Julli

I have studied mindfulness and meditation for over 20 years. Initially as a means of self-reflection, I began to encourage friends to take part and was soon holding classes for stressed and overworked parents!

During lockdown, I discovered Forest Bathing, a Japanese art of mindfulness and meditation centred around nature. I studied with The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI), and qualified as a Forest Bathing guide and mindfulness teacher.

Practising with them confirmed what I already knew in my heart: nature has all the answers.

Life has become more frantic, polarizing and stressful than ever, I feel the need to reconnect with nature and ourselves is no longer just a benefit, but a necessity.

Julli, crouched among frost covered ferns in a woodland

"Chirping birds, fresh damp smell in the woods after rainfall, glistening dew drops on a spider's web, crisp misty mornings, tree bark fallen to the floor, torn in half but teeming with life.. Autumn leaves crunching under foot. fractal patterns that go on for eternity"

I recently had the pleasure of participating in the mindfulness walk organised as part of our Employee Appreciation Week, and I can't express enough how beneficial it was. Stepping away from the hustle and bustle of our daily routines to immerse ourselves in nature was truly rejuvenating. The guided mindfulness exercises helped me reconnect with my surroundings, clear my mind, and focus on the present moment. The walk not only provided a refreshing break but also fostered a sense of community among colleagues.

Heather Vinall

HR Coordinator, Wotton House Hotel