Forest Therapy ( Sat ) ~ Western Hemlock ( Liminal dream protector )

Western Hemlock (Tsuga heterophylla) is a graceful, shade-loving conifer native to the Pacific Northwest of North America. It is not a true hemlock, but rather a member of the pine family (Pinaceae)
In the cosmology, Western Hemlock is the silent priest among the trees and considered a protector of dreams.
It grows in deep, moist shade, places where the light filters through softly, like a dreamscape. This made it symbolically associated with the liminal space, the world between waking and sleeping, body and soul
In some Coast Salish traditions, Hemlock boughs were laid on the ground during healing ceremonies as if to create a threshold between the physical and the spiritual.
The Tlingit would burn its needles in purification rituals.
Meeting Points
🍃 Option1: ( For Groupsave train ticket )
9:30AM London Bridge Rail Station's TICKET OFFICE and see photo below for train timetable.

OR

🍃 Option 2
11AM Gomshall Station
The organiser will be driving and waiting from there.

🍃 Start: Gomshall Station 11AM

🍃 Finish: Gomshall Station ETA 4 PM

🍃 Walk : appx 13 km in total required from the train station to the wood and back

🍃 Pace: average 4.5 to 5.5 km per hour and we may pause for a few times.

🍃 Break: 20 mins with toilet facility, please bring your own pack lunch and sufficient water.

💚 Cost: Free and cash contribution are welcome to cover general meetup running cost, if not this group cannot be sustainable.

Procedures
🍃 Procedures : The session will include an Opening and Closing Circle, a Guided Grounding Meditation, and a Sensory Attunement Activity to support presence, connection, and embodied engagement throughout the experience.

🍃 Reminder: please refrain from constant chatting, loud voices, and mobile phone use during the event. Let’s offer space for presence, stillness, and quiet reflection.

🍃 Recommendation : It’s best to avoid eating heavily before the session.
Drink plenty of water afterwards to support for integration.

🎒What to bring:
Packed lunch, sufficient water, picnic mat, cash for groupsave train ticket,
Waterproof hiking shoes, light blanket ,
Dress in layers and check current weather forecast.

🌿 Important Notes

• As this is an outdoor event, plans may be adjusted or cancelled due to weather conditions.
• Train times or transport logistics may also change. Please stay alert for updates.
• Turn on notifications or check your messages for any last-minute modifications.

GROUP RULES
🌲 1 RSVP & Attendance
Events are for members only. Please RSVP only if you genuinely intend to attend, and kindly avoid repeated no-shows or late cancellations (less than 24 hours), as this may prevent others on the waiting list from joining.
Members on the waiting list may only attend if approved by the event host.
🌲 2. Attendance Matters
The organiser reserves the right to prioritise members who are punctual, consistent, and show genuine interest in the group’s purpose. This space is intended for those who value depth, sincerity, and a heartfelt connection with Nature.
🌲 3. Mutual Respect & Boundaries
This is a non-judgmental and emotionally safe space. Please respect personal boundaries, avoid giving unsolicited advice, and offer presence with kindness and sensitivity. Disrespectful or aggressive behaviour is not acceptable.
🌲 4 Respectful Conduct
Please refrain from loud conversations, disruptive behaviour, or the use of intoxicants during events. Smoking or vaping is not permitted. This helps maintain a peaceful and considerate atmosphere for all.
✨ Final Note
Members who repeatedly disregard these rules, disrupt the experience for others, or show a lack of care for the space will be gently but firmly removed.

DISCLAIMER
By joining this group , you acknowledge and agree to the following:
🍃 This is a free, informal, and peer-led community gathering offered for the purpose of shared wellbeing and connection with nature.
🍃 Although the facilitator is professionally trained and certified in forest therapy and outdoor first aid, this event is offered voluntarily, not as part of any business, commercial service, or professional therapy practice.
🍃 All participants must be 18 or older and are fully responsible for their own safety, health, and wellbeing throughout the event. Outdoor environments do carry inherent risks, and participation is entirely voluntary and undertaken at each individual’s own discretion and risk.
🍃 The organiser, guides, or event hosts accept no liability for any injury (including personal injury or fatal accidents), illness, loss, damage, or disputes that may occur before, during, or after the event.
🍃 You are encouraged to carry personal accident or travel insurance if you feel this is appropriate for your needs.
🍃 Please assess your own physical and emotional readiness to participate. If you have any medical or psychological conditions that may affect your experience, it is your responsibility to manage them appropriately and/or seek advice in advance.
🍃 All event descriptions including timing, distance, pace, and attendance are approximate and may change due to weather, terrain, transport, or other unforeseen circumstances.
🍃 Occasionally, photos or short videos may be taken for motivational, reflective, or educational purposes. If you do not wish to appear in any media, kindly inform the organiser before the session begins.
🍃 By attending, you agree to respect the Countryside Code;
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-countryside-code/the-countryside-code-advice-for-countryside-visitors
all natural spaces, and take personal responsibility for your presence and conduct during the event.
🍃 Events take place on public rights of way or permitted access land. Participants are encouraged to be aware of their responsibilities under the CROW Act (Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000) when enjoying nature.
🔗 UK Government Guidance on Open Access Land and the CROW Act:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/open-access-land-management-rights-and-responsibilities