Life & Design

Indulge in The Duchess of Cambridge’s favorite wellness trend

Forest Bathing is a natural wellbeing therapy that utilises the healing power of the forest

Duchess of Cambridge wellness trend: forest bathing
(Image credit: Emma Lee)

Forest Bathing is one of the biggest wellness trends of the past year. Endorsed by the Duchess of Cambridge herself, Forest Bathing or Shirin-Yoku is a natural wellbeing therapy that utilises the healing power of the forest.

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Duchess of Cambridge wellness trend

(Image credit: Anwar Hussein/EMPICS Entertainment)

Combining mindfulness techniques with the therapeutic energy of the natural environment, Forest Bathing is now one of the cornerstones of Japanese healthcare.

Forest Holidays has been leading the way in Forest Bathing therapy since first introducing the guided sessions over two years ago at Blackwood Forest, Hampshire. The therapy has grown in popularity in the UK and Forest Holidays is now expanding its offering in the Forest of Dean, with more guides undertaking extensive training and accreditation by the Global Institute of Forest Therapy.

kate-middleton-duchess-of-cambridge

(Image credit: Emma Lee)

'Simply being in a forest can be great for your health, helping to reduce anxiety and boost the immune system, but Forest Bathing takes this even further and offers an immersive experience that has real, tangible benefits. It’s the ultimate way to experience the forest and reminds you just how important nature is,' says Forest Therapy Guide at Forest Holidays’ Forest of Dean, Gerry O’Brien.

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kate-middleton-duchess-of-cambridge

(Image credit: Emma Lee)

'Evidence is growing as to the benefits of spending time in nature and for us it’s important to encourage more people to get the most out of this incredible resource, which can have far-reaching benefits. For many people, a shortage of time and the distractions of technology can sadly get in the way of spending time outdoors.

We see the benefits that just a few days spent in nature offer our guests and those who experience Forest Bathing with us truly re-ignite those deeper connections. Our aim is to help people understand how important nature is to their wellbeing and make Forest Bathing accessible to all,' says Bruce McKendrick, Chief Executive of Forest Holidays.

Jennifer Ebert
Deputy Editor (Digital)

Jennifer is the Digital Editor at Homes & Gardens. Having worked in the interiors industry for a number of years, spanning many publications, she now hones her digital prowess on the 'best interiors website' in the world. Multi-skilled, Jennifer has worked in PR and marketing, and the occasional dabble in the social media, commercial and e-commerce space. Over the years, she has written about every area of the home, from compiling design houses from some of the best interior designers in the world to sourcing celebrity homes, reviewing appliances and even the odd news story or two.