What is forest bathing?
The practice was developed in Japan during the 1980s, Forest bathing and forest therapy (or shinrin-yoku) broadly means taking in all of one’s senses within the forest atmosphere. The purpose was to offer an eco-antidote to tech-boom burnout and to inspire residents to reconnect with and protect the country’s forests.
Not just a walk in the forest or as the name may suggest, there is no actual bathing in water (No swimsuits required?). It is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds, textures and smells of the forest. As you walk through the forest you are showered in phytoncides which is a chemical released by trees and plants found to boost the immune system.
Benefits
New studies show that such activity can reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels and improve concentration and memory. The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst connecting to the senses, can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.
Japanese Forest Bathing infused with our Ancient Celtic Wisdom.
Our signature Celtic Forest Bathing sessions coincide with the 8th festivals of the Celtic Wheel. Each session includes information about the individual celebrations. We share knowledge of our celtic folklore, folk medicine, Poetry and of course the importance of our native Irish trees including the ancient wisdom of the ogham trees. At the end of every session a special “Seomra Sí” memento of our time together in the forest is given to all of our guests.
Approximately every 6 weeks we gather to celebrate our Celtic festivals with rituals that unearth the gifts of the wisdom and healing our forests and the seasons have to offer. The forest trail locations will be disclosed to the participants on booking. All of the trails are in Wicklow.
There are only 13 spaces available for our public walks, so be sure to book your place early. Each walk begins at 10am and is approx. 2 hrs long, the wicklow forest location will be disclosed on bookig your place.
Private and Corporate Walks can be booked to suit your requirements or schedule, larger groups are facilated by two forest bathing guides. For more information contact Aisling on 087 9126366
Come join me on this Journey of discovery
The Celtic Forest Bathing dates for 2021/2022
Samhain Sunday 31st October
Yule Sunday 19th December
Imbolc Sunday 30th January
Ostara Sunday march 20th
Beltane Sunday 1st May
Litha Sunday 19th June
Lughnasadh Sunday August 7th
Mabon Sunday 25th September