Women Who Make: Forest Bathing and Calligraphy Walk in The National Forest

Join Steph Walsh with South Derbyshire District Council’s Environmental Education Project at Rosliston Forestry Centre for a restorative morning of forest bathing and Japanese calligraphy, exploring nature, wellbeing and mindful creativity in the heart of The National Forest.

We will meet at Rosliston Forestry Centre in South Derbyshire, where we will learn about the work of the Environmental Education Project, Rosliston Forestry Centre, the National Forest Company and Forestry England. From there, we will enter the nearby woodland for a forest bathing experience

Rooted in the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing), this gentle, immersive experience invites you to slow down, immerse yourself in nature and reconnect with the woodland around you. Guided through a series of mindful and sensory invitations, you'll experience the benefits of improving physical and mental wellbeing, reduced stress, improved sleep and increased focus.

Following the forest bathing session, you'll be introduced to the art of Japanese calligraphy, using nature-inspired words, experiencing the gentle ebb and flow of ink on paper – reflecting the movement of wind and water through the woodlands, and through life itself. As you create, you'll discover the origins of Shinrin Yoku in Japan and discover the multitude of benefits this practice offers for wellbeing today.

The session begins at 10.00am and finishes at approximately 1.30pm.

Together, we will explore:

✅ Forest bathing techniques to support wellbeing and deepen your connection with nature
✅ Mindful and sensory activities inspired by the woodland environment
✅ The origins and principles of the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku
✅ Japanese calligraphy using nature-inspired words and traditional techniques
✅ The work of organisations caring for and celebrating The National Forest

📍 Rosliston Forestry Centre, Burton Road, Rosliston, Swadlincote, DE12 8JX

What to Expect

• A guided forest bathing experience through nearby woodland
• Gentle sensory and mindfulness activities designed to help you slow down
• A relaxed Japanese calligraphy workshop inspired by nature
• Time for quiet reflection and creative exploration
• An easy-paced woodland walk of approximately 3 miles, with plenty of pauses

This is a relaxed experience suitable for most abilities, although woodland paths may be uneven.

Please Note:

• Suitable clothing and footwear for the outdoors and weather conditions.
• Something lightweight to sit or lie on during the forest bathing session, such as a small picnic blanket or sit mat
• Drinks and snacks if you wish (there is also a café on site)
• Please do not attend if you, or anyone in your household, is feeling unwell.

Parking & Travel

Parking is available at Rosliston Forestry Centre. There is a discounted parking rate for event participants – please select the 1-hour parking option at the machine (£1.50). Parking machines accept card payments, or cash can be paid at the visitor centre. Annual parking passes are also available.

The venue can also be reached by the Diamond Bus 22 service between Burton and Swadlincote.

Who Can Join?

This women-only experience is open to anyone aged 16 and over. Whether you're looking to reconnect with nature, discover the practice of forest bathing or enjoy a gentle creative activity in the company of other women, you'll be warmly welcomed. No previous experience is needed.

About Steph Walsh & the Environmental Education Project

Steph Walsh is a creative practitioner who leads guided walks that bring together creativity, heritage and wellbeing. She is currently training in sylvotherapy, further developing her practice in nature-based wellbeing.

The Environmental Education Project at Rosliston Forestry Centre connects people with the natural environment through engaging outdoor learning and wellbeing experiences, working in partnership with organisations including The National Forest Company and Forestry England.

About Women Who Make

Women Who Make celebrates the power of women to make, inspire and transform. This curated programme of gatherings provides a space for inspiration, learning and mutual support through hybrid talks, walks, workshops and festvials. It explores innovations in making and design, storytelling, art for social impact, and how local heritage influences contemporary making.

Programmed by Local Creative Projects Ltd.

https://www.wearelocal.org.uk

About Derbyshire Makes

Derbyshire Makes is a programme of cultural activity highlighting Derbyshire’s creative legacy. It engages new and existing audiences through high-quality creative events – including community-produced projects and artist-led commissions – as part of the Derbyshire Makes Festival and Year Round Projects. Funded by Arts Council England’s Place Partnership fund (National Lottery) and Derbyshire County Council, Derbyshire Makes proudly collaborates with over 50 partners.

See the full listing details here:

https://www.derbyshiremakes.co.uk