Forest Bathing

Forest Bathing - Shinrin-yoku

This practice was first developed in Japan in the 1980s. Shinrin-Yoku literally means to bathe in the environment of the Forest, and is a practice or process of therapeutic relaxation. Following scientific studies by the Japanese government it was discovered that two hours of mindful exploration in a forest could reduce blood pressure, lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and improve concentration and memory.

These studies also showed that the forest plants and trees release chemicals called phytoncides, which have a protective antimicrobial effect on human bodies and thereby boost the immune system. As a result Forest bathing - Shinrin-Yoku is now prescribed as a treatment in the Japanese national health care system.

What to expect.

Be prepared for a deep immersion into mother nature, where you will be guided to use all your senses to connect on a deeper level to the natural environment around. We will re-establish our connection to our natural habitat and bask in it’s beauty, allowing nature to become our naturopathic apothecary bringing us relaxation, inner peace and healing.

As you walk with calm and leisure through the quiet untouched Forest areas of Madeira, you will be invited to participate in moments of silence, mediation, breath work and somatic movement to bring about a deeper sense of being, release and relaxation. Along the journey you will also discover the therapeutic benefits of the some of the plants that you will encounter.

Potential Benefits:

  • Reduced blood pressure

  • Reduced cortisol and stress

  • Improved mood

  • Increased ability to focus

  • Alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression, and attention deficit disorders

  • Accelerated recovery from illness or surgery

  • Increased energy levels

  • Improved sleep

  • Increases levels of cancer-killing proteins and immune cells.

  • Boosts creativity.

 FAQs

  • The session will last 2.5-3 hours. It is a moderately easy trail in the midst of the forest. A minimum of 2 participants are required for the session to go ahead.

  • It is best to wear trousers and long sleeve top as the temperature can change in the forest. If it is the hight of summer then you may wish to wear shorts and tee-shirt. However, even though it may be a hot day in the Forest, the temperature is normally cooler, so layers are recommended. Also bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable shoes for walking, water and maybe a journal and pen. You can also bring walking sticks, as there is a short incline at the beginning and end of the hike. If your fitness level and stability are very good then you may not need them.

  • This is suitable for everyone with moderate fitness, there is a short incline at the beginning and end of the walk, so walking sticks are advisable if you struggle to walk up. The majority of the route is fairly flat, and there will be a few stops for mindful practices, and one stop for a tea, which I will provide, in nature. If you have any queries about your suitability for the Forest bathing please contact me directly.

  • Once booking has been made you will be sent a link to the location. Alternatively if you need transport it can be arranged at an additional cost. The pick up will be from Funchal.

  • If the weather is bad, and it is not advisable to do the Forest Bathing for safety reasons, then the session will be rescheduled for another day.

Contact me.

If you would like to book a session or have any questions about the offer above please send me a message. I will get back to you as soon as possible