Now that we are able to go further afield, myself and my partner have been taking our children and the dog to our local woodland for a walk every day or so. It’s always quiet there, and when we have encountered other people it’s been really easy to social distance.
We come home feeling optimistic, refreshed, more connected with each other and with the environment around us. I’d heard of “forest bathing” but didn’t really know too much about it. Forest bathing is a relaxation method with its origins in Japan and is based on mindfulness and meditation practice.
The idea is to switch off your phones and pay attention to the sights, sounds, and smells around you whilst also deepening your breathing. You can encourage your children to experience the forest with you and develop their mindfulness skills.
The trees produce natural shade so no one gets too hot, plus there is the option for tree climbing (building confidence), bug or scavenger hunts and making dens!
