There is a significant growing body of scientific research that confirms the therapeutic benefits of connecting to the natural world in terms of psychological, physical and spiritual health. 

What is forest bathing?
Forest bathing or Shinrin Yoku is a wellbeing practice that originated in Japan in the 1980s.  Research was undertaken by the Japanese government to investigate the major health  problems endemic in the Japanese work force living in urban environments. Numerous studies focused on participants walking in different environments,  researchers came across major findings in that the participants who walked in forested/wooded environments had significantly improved levels of health relating to immunity, heart rate and stress reduction . Japanese health professionals devised programmes in which people were prescribed Shinrin Yoku sessions as way to boost and maintain their wellbeing levels. Although the principles and practice of Shinrin Yoku have only been devised for health promotion in recent times, at it`s heart are the influences of the ancient traditions and spiritual teachings of Shinto and Taoist religions. 

What`s the science behind the benefits of being in nature?
Many studies into forest bathing have taken place in recent years to strengthen the work and research first conducted in Japan. Most notably has been research conducted by Dr Qing Li and Yoshifumi Miyazaki ,a professor at Chiba University in Japan.
Studies found;
   *Chemical compounds called phytoncides, which are omitted by trees, increased natural killer cells and anti cancer proteins .
*2 hours exposure of forest bathing was measured to have benefits for 30 days in boosting immune function.
*Saliva tests showed a significant reduction in stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.
* Sleeping patterns and sleep duration improved for study participants who undertook regular walks within forested areas in comparison to those participants walking in a man made environment.


What are the psychological health benefits?
There is growing awareness by leading mental health charities and organisations that nature therapies are a valuable and viable form of therapeutic intervention. Leaders in this field of research, Kaplan and Kaplan, noted that connecting to naturally occurring sensory stimuli directly effected the parasympathetic nervous system and decreased activity associated with brain`s in built alarm system the amygdala. Research also focused on the theory of "soft fascination". This denotes how our brains can slow down in nature. The brain is given space for cognitive reflection because soft fascination does not require direct attention or high levels of processing.  Consider how you feel when we stop to watch a sunset or comb a beach for interesting pebbles, these are examples of soft fascination, our brain is able to simply tune into the here and now.

What does Wilder Being offer? 
* I am currently undertaking training as an Eco Therapist, please visit again soon, 
eco arts therapy programmes coming in spring 2025

 
​Group Forest Bathing sessions in various woodlands around South Manchester. Guided mindful meditations and sensory experiences through immersion in wild wooded areas. Bring a seat or mat. Duration 1 hour 15mins. Maximum 12 people. Booking via Eventbrite. Please note that as I am in the process of developing Wilder Being I am currently asking for donation only to attend the sessions. This helps to cover the site permission fee, training and insurance. Sorry due to insurance purposes the sessions are for adults 16+ only. Unfortunately dogs are not permitted on the sessions


Winter Forest Bathing at Woodbank Park, Stockport.
Wandering and wondering in Woodbank to experiencing the beauty of nature as it rests during winter. A perfect opportunity to start the new year by finding stillness and headspace during busy everyday life. Engage ourselves with the natural environment to reflect on the year past and re-set a little for the coming year.
N.B. This event was sold out. For more photos please visit the nature inspirations page 











For the next session please click here to book on EventBrite 

Individual Wild Wellbeing Walks Escape the pressure of everyday 21st century living. De-stress and recharge by plugging yourself back into the natural world .One to one sessions with guided mindful meditations and therapeutic explorations within the natural environment.
                                           Please email or call for more details.                                                * Please note that although you may need to share and explore any issues on your walk and experience the cathartic benefits of being immersed in nature, the 1:1 walks are not outdoor counselling sessions run under the professional regulations of counselling or psychotherapy.
 
Wild Writing Sessions in South Manchester's woodlands. Participate in creative writing inspired by the seasons, wildlife and trees. Explore making free verse poetry, haiku poems and micro fiction in an outdoor setting. No experience necessary! Bring a seat or mat. Bring a pad and pen.  Max 10 people. Duration 1 hour 15mins. £15 Booking via eventbrite 
 More details to come