Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear? 

Basically, whatever you’ll be comfortable in! You don’t need to have full-on outdoor gear, but a waterproof coat and layers are always advised for the British Weather. 

Walking boots/shoes are recommended but the terrain is fairly even so if you’re happy in trainers this won’t be a problem. Brand new, white trainers not advised. We will likely get a bit muddy! 

What should I bring? 

Our sensory invitations and ‘sit spot’ can be done sitting, standing or lying down. If you have a yoga mat or sit mat (or even gardening knee pad) please bring it along if you’d prefer to sit than stand, I will have some spares but can’t guarantee that there will be enough for everyone. 

Other than that you’re just advised to bring a bottle of water and any medication that you may need. 

Do I need to be fit?

Generally, no. The pace will be slow and the terrain is fairly even, however there will be some reasonably steep sections of the trail. If you do have any health concerns or mobility issues please reach out before booking a session.

How does this differ from Forest Bathing? 

Forest Therapy and Forest Bathing are essentially interchangeable terms (although I'm sure some may disagree!). I like to use the term Forest Therapy because I feel that it encompasses the nature of the practice more, but also because people are less likely to ask me if they have to get naked to participate. 

I don’t usually find that meditation works for me, will this be a problem?

It’s the perfect mindfulness activity for those of us who struggle to switch off and might not typically engage with activities such as meditation. Many of the benefits of Forest Therapy come simply from slowing down and awakening your senses to the natural world; so, you don’t need to be a Zen Buddhist Monk to take something away from the session. 

Many people find that as they get settled into the session, or even after more consistent exposure to the forest over a number of sessions, tuning out the mental noise and tuning in to the world around becomes much easier. That being said, there’s no right or wrong way to do Forest Therapy, each experience is precious and unique! 

Are you a ‘real’ Therapist?

In short, no. Although Forest Therapy can have profound psychological and physiological benefits, it is not in itself a clinical psychological intervention, such as counselling or psychotherapy. Therefore, as your guide through the practice I am not a mental health professional and will not be able to offer clinical support. 

See me more as a (very unbendy) yoga teacher or breathwork instructor, here to guide you and help you to get the most out of your practice. 

Will I get my steps in? 

All in all, we’ll cover about a 2.5-3 mile radius in 2 hours, the pace is slow and gentle. Whilst there are many wellbeing benefits of Forest Therapy, it generally won’t help you to hit any fitness targets! 

Can I bring my dog? 

Dogs are wonderful, pure beings who live in the moment, we have much to learn from them and so they do not need to engage in Forest Therapy. Jokes aside, as much as we love them, they can be a distraction both for their guardian(s) and other participants so I please ask that dogs are not brought to the session (with the exception of service dogs).

Can I bring my kids? 

Currently (mostly for insurances purposes) sessions are only for people ages 18 and above.