Forest Bathing (w/ The London Dryad)

Introduction
In our busy city, it can be difficult to find time to slow down and smell the roses! Forest bathing offers you the chance to do just that. Over the course of 2 hours, you will be guided through a multi-sensory exploration of the natural world, giving you time to slow down, breathe, and find peace among the natural world.

What is forest bathing?
Forest bathing typically consists of slow walking, mindfulness practices, and resting (seated or lying down) in nature. Remember being a kid and just watching the branches overhead in the breeze?
Originating in Japan in the 1980s, Shin-Rin Yoku or forest bathing, was created as a preventative response to climbing rates of stress in urban areas. Since then, many research studies have shown that even one hour a week spent engaging with nature can significantly reduce symptoms of stress.

What to expect:

• 2-hour duration
• Small group size (maximum 6)
• Multi-sensory activities
• Sharing circle (optional)
• Herbal tea offering
• A guide to take care of you, so you can truly relax into the wonder of the natural world
• Phone-free environment
• Opportunity to chat and connect with others (if you would like to)
• Please note there are no toilets available - there are several cafes on Mile End Road with toilet facilities.

What to bring:

• Warm clothes; even on a summer day, spending prolonged time in the shade can begin to feel chilly!
• Shoes with a good grip, and that you don't mind getting dirty
• A journal and pen
• A mug (for tea if you fancy it!)
• Any medications you might need, such as EpiPens or inhalers.

How much is it?
This experience is offered on a donation basis; this means you can decide what you can reasonably afford to give. To help you decide, we want to be transparent with our cost breakdown:

• £8.50 - meets the recommended donation to Friends of THCP and contributes to important conservation work
• £12 - covers the above and supports the guide at the minimum wage rate
• £15-20 - pay it forward / supporter option.

You are welcome to give less or more depending on your personal circumstances.

About your guide:
Hello! I'm Lizzie, a life-long nature lover. Having been gifted the Kingfisher Concise Field Guide to Animals & Plants of Britain and Europe at the tender age of five, it's perhaps unsurprising that I am happiest outdoors! After several years as a geography teacher and data analyst, I began my studentship as a Forest Bathing Practitioner with Nature and Therapy in June 2025. I have experienced the medicinal influence of nature in my own life when I've struggled with burnout and grief; it's a gift I am keen to share with others.
If you have any questions, please do reach out. I look forward to welcoming you!

What next?
Sign up! Then, you will receive a participation form by email with a couple of questions about health and safety; please try to respond before the event, so we can go straight to the trees! Your answers will help us to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone and are encrypted. Our GDPR policy is available on request.