WOODLAND WELLBEING (Forest Bathing)

If you're looking for a way to properly switch off and reconnect without leaving the city limits, there's a restorative activity happening right in the woodlands near Brighton called WOODLAND WELLBEING. It’s essentially what the Japanese call Shinrin-yoku, or Forest Bathing. The idea is simple: it’s described as a sensory and heart-healing journey where you consciously 'bathe' in the beauty of nature. It’s important to know this isn't about jumping into a cold stream—it’s explicitly not wild swimming—but rather a mindful, meditative walk, focusing on achieving a deep connection with the earth.

The whole point of the session is to leave you feeling uplifted, calm, luminous, and deeply connected, aiming for a full reset of the body, mind, and soul. These sessions typically run between 1.5 and 3 hours. While the activity takes place in various parks and wooded areas close to Brighton, one of the main providers, Wilderdays CIC, offers these experiences specifically in an isolated forest garden within the Stanmer Organics/Stanmer Park area. Wilderdays is co-founded by Kathleen Sinclair, who brings a decade of experience in Forest Bathing right there in Stanmer Park.

This activity is available all year round, making it a flexible option regardless of the season. It seems particularly popular for groups; whether you’re planning a hen or stag party, a family outing, or a corporate team event, they cater to it. It’s worth noting that the organizers are very clear that all activities are explicitly family and LGBTQ+ friendly. In terms of accessibility, it’s suitable for most fitness levels, though they ask that any health issues or disabilities be discussed before booking. If you’re interested, prices for the Woodland Wellbeing sessions start at £20 per person, but the final cost depends on the group size and specific requirements, so booking and a deposit are essential.