FOREST THERAPY: THE OUTDOOR SOUL SOOTHER

At the risk of repeating ourselves, it’s good to go green, and getting into forest therapy is about as green as it gets. ‘Forest therapy (or forest bathing) rejuvenates our spirits and promotes a sense of calm, which is hard to reach in the hustle of modern life,’ says forest therapy guide Caitlin Keddie.

BIG BENEFITS Studies show that forest therapy reduces blood pressure, lowers cortisol levels and improves memory and concentration. It can be as simple as taking a walk in the woods or as immersive as joining a group with a forest therapy guide. It’s your call.

WHERE TO START If you’re the kind who finds it hard to switch off or go it alone, once social distancing rules are relaxed, find a guide and group. ‘Our minds are often so distracted by stressful events, we find it hard to be in the present, where we have headspace and can truly relax,’ says Caitlin. If you go with a guide, they can come up with creative ways of connecting to nature and set the right pace for relaxation.

WHAT HAPPENS? A group session can be anything from one to three hours, including different elements, and the pace will be slow. ‘This is often a surprise, but much needed for those living or working in high-stress environments,’ says Caitlin. In her sessions, Caitlin includes…

• Meditation to awaken senses and draw attention to breathing. A great way to begin to slow down, become fully present and let stresses melt away.

• Gentle walking at a pace where you take notice of what is around you more closely or of your different senses.

• Coming together occasionally. You’ll share anything you notice or experience in a non-judgemental way.

• Creativity. Some walks feature expressive arts using materials found naturally, reading nature-based poetry or time for reflection.

• Resting. Unwind at the end of the session to enjoy a moment of quiet, the forest atmosphere or, in Caitlin’s sessions, a tea ceremony. ‘Forest bathers often remark on how relaxed they feel after a session and how they have forgotten about time and everything else going on,’ says Caitlin.

• Caitlin is founder of Forest Therapy Scotland (forest-therapy-scotland.com). To find guides near you, see foresttherapyinstitute.com. Sessions start at around £20pp