Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku)
Escape. Reconnect. Restore.
Modern life can leave you feeling rushed, stressed, or disconnected from yourself and the world around you.
Forest Bathing offers a gentle, science-backed way to slow down, breathe deeply, and let nature support your well-being.
You’ll be warmly welcomed, no experience needed, just bring your curiosity and an open mind.
Guided by an accredited practitioner, each session invites you to tune into the subtle colours, scents, textures, and sounds of beautiful woodlands and gardens across West Sussex and Hampshire.
"In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks."
— John Muir
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing, also called shinrin-yoku, is a guided, science-backed way to experience nature slowly and mindfully.
It’s not simply a walk in the woods, and it doesn’t involve swimming. Instead, you’re supported to gently tune in to the sights, scents, sounds, and textures around you through mindful sensory invitations and breathing practices. Sessions move at a slow, gentle pace; no experience needed, just curiosity.
Originating in Japan during the 1980s, Forest Bathing is now recognised globally as an evidence-based form of holistic and complementary medicine. This accessible practice is open to all ages and abilities, aiming to restore the natural connection between body, mind, and the environment.
Why It Matters Today
Modern life and its constant demands can leave us feeling anxious, stressed, lonely, or low. Forest Bathing helps to:
Lower stress, blood pressure, and inflammation in the body
Support emotional well-being - easing anxiety, depression, and loneliness
Improve sleep, focus, and long-term brain health
Boost immunity, balance mood, and promote gentle recovery from pain
Enhance overall vitality and a deeper sense of community and connection
Backed by long-term research, regular time spent in nature is now recommended as part of a holistic approach to mental, physical, and emotional health.
Forest Bathing is preventative health at its gentlest: safe, inclusive, and designed to support lifelong wellbeing.
Find answers to common questions on our FAQs for Nature page.
Why is this for you
You crave an escape from daily demands and busy routines.
You’re looking to reconnect with nature and spend gentle time outdoors.
You want new ways to nourish your body, mind, and emotions.
You’re curious about the science-backed benefits of nature for your well-being.
You’d love to meet supportive, like-minded people in a mindful setting.
What makes our sessions unique
Held in ancient woodlands and special historic gardens, chosen for beauty and wellbeing.
Led by an accredited Forest Bathing guide trained by The Forest Bathing Institute.
All practices are science-backed, supporting both body and mind.
Designed gently and mindfully, caring for nature as well as people.
What to expect
Small, supportive group sessions with a warm, caring atmosphere.
A slow, relaxed pace with moments of stillness and gentle silence.
Mindful invitations that calm your mind and awaken your senses.
Beautiful, nature-rich settings—carefully chosen for biodiversity and deep rest.
Our Locations
Every site is chosen for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and ability to support deep rest and reconnection.
Many of our woodland sessions take place in sites managed by Forestry England, where conservation and peaceful public access are a priority.
Here are a few of our favourite places to guide you:
Houghton Forest, West Sussex
A peaceful, ancient woodland on the edge of the South Downs National Park. Wide, gentle paths wind through oak, beech, and sweet chestnut, offering space, tranquillity, and an open canopy for deep relaxation.
West Walk, Forest of Bere, Hampshire
Wander through one of Hampshire’s largest woodlands, home to Scots pine, birch, and oak. Shaded paths and quiet corners invite you to slow down and enjoy the calming presence of nature.
Denmans Gardens, West Sussex
Immerse yourself in a tranquil garden filled with winding paths and sensory plantings. These gentle sessions are perfect if you’re new to forest bathing or prefer even ground. Garden entry is included; feel free to stay and explore after your session.
Click here to learn more about Denmans Gardens.
Booking and Availability
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Our Offerings
One-Off Sessions (2–3 hours)
Experience a full Forest Bathing+ session with gentle sensory and grounding practices.
Each event is shaped by the season, no two sessions are exactly alike, and all offer a restorative pause from daily demands.Block Bookings (4 or 6 sessions)
Build a regular nature-based practice over time.
Enjoy discounted rates, deepen your connection to nature, and experience the changing seasons in supportive company.Corporate & Group Sessions
Explore tailored Forest Bathing experiences for your team or workplace well-being program.
Visit our Corporate Wellbeing page for info and booking.All sessions take place in peaceful ancient woodlands and gardens across West Sussex and Hampshire.
Groups are kept small and welcoming, so you can relax and enjoy a truly personal experience. -
Your Investment
Forest Bathing Session: £40 per person
Block of 4 sessions: £150 per person
Block of 6 sessions: £210 per person
(Discounted rates apply to block bookings.)Please note: Duration and pricing may vary for garden-based sessions. Check individual event listings for details.
Ready to join us?
Visit our Book an Experience pagefor full dates, times, locations, and availability.Looking for a thoughtful gift?
See our Gifts page to purchase a voucher for someone special.If you have any questions, please contact us.
Meet your Guide
Chantelle Manz - Founder & Forest Bathing Guide
Chantelle knows firsthand how transformative mindful time in nature can be. Her own journey with forest bathing inspired a passion, not just for personal healing, but also for helping others reconnect with the natural world.
Chantelle is a CMA-accredited Forest Bathing Guide, trained by The Forest Bathing Institute, which includes mindfulness and meditation. She’s dedicated to combining science-backed nature practices with deep care for the environment.
As a member of the Complementary Medical Association (CMA), Chantelle upholds high standards of professional and ethical care. She creates safe, peaceful spaces for you to find balance, clarity, and healing, whatever your experience or starting point.
Your safety comes first. Chantelle is certified in Mental Health First Aid, Outdoor First Aid, and holds an Enhanced DBS check, so you can relax and join with confidence.
Kind words from previous participants
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"One of the highlights for me was the exercise when we looked really closely at things. It reminds me of being a kid, feeling such curiosity and joy. I'd love for anyone to reconnect to that feeling and forest bathing is such a wonderful way to get back in touch with that part of yourself. "
Charlotte - Oct-24
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"As a complete novice, I really enjoyed my first forest bathing experience. Being in the stunning woods on a peaceful bright autumnal morning and being guided and encouraged to really look, listen, smell, feel and take it all in was inspiring, calming and incredibly relaxing. My mind stitched off from the franticness of modern life and for a while I was just able to ‘be!’ Thank you."
Heather - Nov-24
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"This was a lovely, calming session ‘off-grid’ - I even switched my phone off … There is a sense of awe standing in the forest and experiencing it through all the senses. Taking the time to take in the range of colours, sounds, textures and scents was wonderful and, at times, nostalgic. It was a lovely way to connect with myself and with nature - thank you."
Rachel - Jan-25
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“My favourite part was lying in the forest with the canopy of the trees and sunshine above us, listening to your guided meditation… It was a heavenly experience — one I shall be repeating!”
Samantha Mar 25
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"A wonderful experience… helping us connect deeply with the natural surroundings… I felt a noticeable reduction in stress and a renewed sense of calm."
Lydia - Apr 25
