What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness is a state of mind achieved when you purposely pay attention to the present moment, in a non-judgmental way. This can include thoughts, feelings and your environment at the time.

What are the benefits of practising mindfulness?

Mindfulness activates the parasympathetic nervous system (often called the "rest and digest" system). Activating this system reduces the production of stress hormones leading to a calmer, more relaxed state.

A daily mindfulness practice therefore can have many potential benefits including stress reduction, and lower blood pressure, with the knock-on effect of improving sleep, the formation of new neural connections in the brain helping with focus and concentration, helping to regulate emotion, boosting creativity, reducing anxiety and depression, it can even help with pain reduction, as well as improving self-awareness and improve your mind-body connection and overall improved physical health.

What is Forest Bathing?

The term “Forest Bathing” originated in Japan in the 1980s and is also known as “Shinrin Yoku”. Translated, it means to “bathe in the forest atmosphere”. The practice involves slowing down, walking slowly through woodland, being mindful, and connecting to nature through all five senses (vision, hearing, touch, smell and taste).

At The Naturally Curious, we specifically deliver Forest Bathing+ sessions, which in addition to the above extend mindfulness practices throughout the session, further enhancing the mental and physical health benefits, as proven through scientific research, based in specific woodland sites for their highest health-giving properties, as well as contribute towards the protection and promotion of nature as a vital resource.

What are the benefits of Forest Bathing?

The effects of Forest Bathing can last for several days, but when practised regularly can have an increasingly positive compounding impact on our physical, mental and overall well-being. Some potential benefits include reduced stress, improved mood and energy, enhanced immune function, lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health, reduced anxiety, improved sleep quality, improved metabolic health, and more.

Do we go Forest Bathing in the rain?

Yes, absolutely! Forest Bathing during or after rain can enhance the experience, as the air becomes enriched with phytoncides—natural compounds released by plants, trees, and vegetation. These phytoncides have been shown to offer numerous health benefits, including boosting immune function, which is why your guide will encourage you to take deep breaths during the session.

Rain also provides unique opportunities to engage your senses and deepen your connection with nature. You can observe raindrops interacting with the environment, notice the way they make leaves shine, or watch the patterns they create in puddles. The sound of rain adds a soothing backdrop, making it a surprisingly enriching and calming experience.