Forest Bathing ( Shinrin Yoku ) ~ English Oak

Oak is one of the native trees in the uk, the national tree of England and It represents strength, longevity, wisdom, and endurance. In some cultures, the oak is considered a sacred tree, which can heal and strengthen the sick, bring vitality through the blessing of the acorn.
Its majestic appearance and steadfastness make it a symbol of energy and mighty power. The oak tree also embodies masculinity and strength.

EVENT LOCATION: Start 11:04 Chipstead Station ( zone 6 and oyster or contactless are ok )
( No waiting for late comers please ).

WALK: appx 2 to 4 miles, mainly unpaved, please wear comfortable hiking shoes and dress appropriately for current weather condition.

DURATION: appx 2 to 3 hours

BREAK: 25 mins with toilet facility.

WHAT TO BRING: a backpack, a small picnic mat, a light blanket, sufficient water and pack lunch or snack. Please wear comfortable clothing and hiking shoes.

COST: FREE, cash contributions are warmly welcome to cover the cost; meetup fees, petrol etc..

In Japanese, Shinrin means “forest,” and yoku means “bath”, shinrin-yoku means bathing in the forest atmosphere or refers to an experience of " immersion" in the forest. In another word, taking in the forest through our senses; sight, hearing, taste, smell and touch.
The sounds of the forest, the scent of the trees, the sunlight playing through the leaves, the fresh, clean air can give us a sense of comfort and solace. They ease our stress and worries, help us to relax, refresh and rejuvenate.
There will be guided meditation to relax and participants will have their own time and space to explore the Forest.
Professor and Dr. Qing Li (MD, PhD) who is the world’s foremost expert in forest medicine & immunology, the main researcher in Shinrin Yoku ( forest bathing ) stated profoundly,
"The forest is like my mother,
a sacred place, a gift to me from the divine.
It is a paradise of healing.
To study the benefits of forest bathing is my life work."
And the following is Dr Qing Li's evidence based research in Shinrin Yoku,
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9665958/pdf/ehpm-27-043.pdf

Special Note from the organiser
This event is not hiking or social meeting ( talking ) in the forest and please kindly refrain from using mobile phones during the process. Please RSVP this event only if you are serious to attend, members who frequently fail to show up or late cancellations ( less than 24 hours ) will be removed from group.

IMPORTANCE
Some of the events require a participant to be able to walk 4 to 5 Km per hour and in some cases tough terrain too, please join only if your are medically fit enough. A cancellation may occur in case of heavy rain or snow, transport's information might be changed and please always check any updates and turn on notifications. Please follow and respect the countryside code;
• Leave gates and property as you find them.
• Slow down or stop for horses, walkers and farm animals and give them plenty of room.
• Make no unnecessary noise; do not disturb the residents or frighten farm animals & wildlife and maintain “ Peace & Quiet “ nature of countryside.
• Keep away from machinery and farm animals.
• Please do not feed livestock, horses or wild animals.
• Make sure you keep to the footpaths to help protect crops and wildlife.

GROUP RULES

• All attendees are required to RSVP; members who repeatedly fail to show up or cancel late will be removed from the group. Guests or members on the waiting list are not allowed unless the event host approves.
• Please treat other group members respectfully and courteously, respecting their boundaries and considering their cultural sensitivities.
• Please refrain from criticism, personal attacks, harassment, loud voices, and smoking, including vaping, during the events.
• The organiser has the right to prioritise punctual and regular members and show interest or appreciation.

DISCLAIMERThis is an informal activity, and each participant must be over 18 and responsible for their own safety. The organisers or event hosts cannot be held liable as a team for any damage, fights, or inconveniences caused or suffered, personal injuries, or any accidents, including fatal ones, which may occur during this event. It is essential to note that, despite our best efforts, care, and attention, event details may change or be altered due to unforeseen circumstances, including weather, transportation, and other factors. Please note that event descriptions are estimates, including time, distance, and the number of attendees. We may take photos and videos, including those of you, during our events for motivational and inspirational purposes. By attending our events, you acknowledge and agree to be bound by all the terms of this disclaimer and to comply with the countryside code.