Facilitator: Dee Aebischer
Come and join Dee Aebischer, a qualified guide with the UK Forest Bathing Institute, who holds a Masters & PhD in Forest Science, as she leads you on a journey of discovery through the art of Forest Bathing (also known as Shinrin Yoku). This gentle, nature-based therapeutic practice was developed in Japan during the 1980s, with the purpose of reducing stress and enhancing mental and physical wellbeing.
Although Shinrin Yoku is translated as “forest bathing”, there is no water involved, the term rather describes a state of becoming fully immersed in the forest atmosphere through awareness, observation and meditation.
Event time: Sun 13th Oct 2024 at 10:00am - Sun 13th Oct 2024 at 2:00pm
During the session, you will be guided through the beautiful woods surrounding Hawkwood House. You will be shown simple breathing and sensory exercises to help relieve tension as well as develop a calm and positive state of mind. For the most part, silence and focus will be encouraged, but there will be opportunities to share observations and experiences within the group. Sessions are held in all weathers except for strong winds and extreme cold, as different conditions enable us to better observe the ever-changing woodland environment.
The aim is to give you the skills to practice Forest Bathing independently and connect with a sense of awe and curiosity in nature. The benefits of doing this regularly are manyfold, working on all aspects of a person’s being.
"I thought I knew Hawkwood's woods well, but Forest Bathing has shown me a whole new way of looking at them"
"[Dee] has a very calming and soothing voice, which helped me feel at ease and relaxed"
Hawkwood is a stunning Grade II listed 19th-century country house, surrounded by 42 acres of sustainably managed woodland, farmland, and gardens. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds – an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – it is a sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. With a diverse selection of nearly 150 courses, there’s plenty to choose from, including courses in transformative leadership, future thinking, inner life, music and the arts. Our programme of courses is led by experienced tutors and leaders in their fields.
• Mindful walking through our woodland trails
• Meditate in our Woodland Sanctuary
• Go on a hike and explore the Cotswolds AONB
• Discover surrounding charming market towns
Please wear weather appropriate clothing. As we'll be walking at a slow pace, you may wish to wear an extra layer, a wind-proof jacket may be useful too.
The session will be taking place over lunch time as the woodland is generally quieter then, so you may wish to bring a snack, water bottle and a thermal cup.
Please bring a yoga/meditation mat or a picnic blanket.
Dee Aebischer is a qualified guide with the UK Forest Bathing Institute, who holds a Masters and PhD in Forest Science. Dee is passionate about the environment and helping people develop a meaningful connection with nature and has been interested in mindfulness and meditation practices and their benefits for many years.