What is forest bathing? What does it involve?

• Forest bathing or ‘shinrin-yoku’ as it is known in Japan, translates as ‘taking in the forest atmosphere using your senses’. It is not a foraging walk, a hike, a powerwalk or a naturalist walk and it does not involve swimming so no bathing gear is needed!

• It typically lasts between 2-3 hours (although it may be shorter than this at certain times of the year if the weather is particularly cold).

• During the walk, you will be offered a series of ‘invitations’ which are suggestions of ways you can more deeply connect with nature and open your senses. At times we will gather in a group to share the experience but there is no pressure at all to participate in this, so if you do not wish to speak or share anything, that is completely respected.
  
  

Why do I need a guide to do this?

• Forest bathing can be done with or without a guide. Many people find it useful to do it with a guide due to our tech dominated and busy lives, it can be very difficult to fully switch off. Even when we are spending time in nature, we tend to still be in ‘doing’ or ‘thinking’ mode e.g. talking on the phone, thinking about our problems or daydreaming all the while still rushing.  Having a certified guide will help you to really slow down and gain the physical and mental benefits of this practice.
  
  

Is forest bathing a form of psychological therapy or counselling?

• No, forest bathing is simply a wellbeing and health promotion practice. Although I am an accredited Cognitive Behaviour Therapist, the forest bathing I provide is not a therapeutic treatment intervention for mental health issues. I do not provide therapy or counselling on forest bathing sessions.

Do I need to be physically fit?

• The route will usually be no more than a mile, and the terrain is generally gentle so it should be suitable for all levels of fitness. However please feel free to get in contact with me if you have any concerns about accessibility or mobility issues.  
  
  

Do I need any special equipment or clothing?

• You’ll need to wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather and footwear that can manage uneven and sometimes muddy ground. As it’s a slow-paced session it is important to wear a few layers of clothing so you are not cold/wet as this can make it harder to fully connect to the experience. If the weather on the day is particularly cold/wet or you are someone who gets cold easily, I recommended wearing a hat, scarf and gloves.

• At times you may be invited to sit or lie on the ground (completely optional!) so it can be helpful to bring a small mat/cushion/bin liner/bag to use for this.

Are there toilets available?

• This depends on the location of the event. Unfortunately, there are no toilet facilities at Childwall Woods, Black Woods or Wavertree Botanic Gardens. There are public toilet facilities at Croxteth Park, Sefton Park & Newsham Park with varying opening hours.

Will I have to do anything I don't want to do?

• No, it is completely up to you how much you want to participate. We do gather in a group at points to share our experiences of the forest bathing, but this is optional, and you do not have to speak if you do not wish to.

Can I use my mobile phone?

• You can bring your phone if it makes you feel more comfortable. However, it is suggested you leave it at home as even having your phone in your hand or pocket can disconnect you from fully immersing yourself in the experience. If you do wish to take it with you, you will be asked to switch it off or keep it on silent/vibrate.

Do you provide refreshments?

• You can bring a bottle of water and small snacks with you if you wish. We sometimes have a tea gathering at the end where you will be offered either herbal tea or tea made from plants which are carefully foraged from the local area and some light snacks**. If you prefer not to have any tea, that is also fine. *Please let me know at the time of booking if you have any allergies or dietary requirements e.g. gluten free, vegan etc

Can I bring my child? 

• Only children aged 16 and over accompanied by a responsible adult can attend. The minimum age requirement is because the session is designed to be slow and peaceful and there are times when you are quiet and still. Please bear this in mind and decide if your child/children will be able to participate in this way.

Are dogs allowed?

• No, unless it is a guide or assistance dog. Please let me know in advance if you require assistance via the contact page.

  What is your cancellation policy?

• If you need to cancel, a full refund will be issued if you cancel 7 days prior to the event (minus any credit or debit card charges). Cancellation at shorter notice than this will result in a discretionary refund if I can rebook your place in time with someone else. Journeys in Nature is under no obligation to rebook or refund for no-shows or cancellations within 7 days of the event.

• In the unlikely event that an event is cancelled by Journeys In Nature then you will receive a full refund or exchange for a future forest bathing session.