QIGONG AND FOREST BATHING

A blissful 3-hour workshop, that includes a 40-minute gentle Qigong session, suitable for all levels and complete beginners, followed by some deeply tranquil Forest Bathing. The morning finishes with herbal and wild teas, snacks and a closing gratitude circle.

Places are limited and include food and beverage

I’m incredibly excited about combining these 2 passions to offer a beautiful morning that will leave you feeling deeply grounded, calm and at peace with yourself and the Nature around you.

WHY QIGONG AND FOREST BATHING?

I have an extensive background in dance and conscious movement and lived in China for a year where i studied Qigong, Tai Chi and Kung Fu. Dance and movement have always been a passion for mine, but up until now, I have not introduced them into my outdoor nature connection workshops.

WHAT IS QIGONG?

I recently completed a refresher course in Qigong and was once again reminded how wonderful it is to practice and how connected to Nature it is! Qigong is an ancient Chinese practice that incorporates simple mindful movement, breath and meditation. It is also traditionally practised outside in parks or woodlands and includes a vast amount of references to Nature and exercises that connect you to the energy of the Earth and Sky.

I actually cant believe it has taken me so long to introduce it into my workshops and retreats because it fits so well with Forest Bathing and can absolutely enhance the experience. We get deeply connected to our bodies in Qigong and then can connect more powerfully with Nature when we move onto Forest Bathing and connect with our senses to be present and bathe in the atmosphere of Nature.

You do not need experience in either Qigong or Forest Bathing, they are both simple and gentle practices and I guide you through the morning with ease and flow. You also don’t need a change of clothes and would only advise you are comfortable in what you wear and have comfortable shoes.

ABOUT FOREST BATHING

The name Forest Bathing is a translation of the Japanese term 'Shinrin Yoku' which literally means Forest Bath. the meaning of this is to bathe in the atmosphere of the Forest and does not refer to any physical kind of swimming or bathing.

The Japanese began Forest bathing back in the 80s and today there are Forest Bathing Guides all over the world guiding people back into Nature to find peace, deep relaxation, connection and meaning. The practice has now been subject to a vast amount of research and has been scientifically proven to be an effective support for mental health illness and physical/emotional health and wellbeing too.

WHAT TO EXPECT

We will begin with a 40 min gentle and simple Qigong session where I will guide you through a series of wrm up exercises and Qigong movements that will all be done in a standing position. Qigong is all about fluidity and flow and does not require a certain technique to practice. It is deeply relaxing and enjoyable and will create a wonderful connection to your body and the present moment.

In a forest bathing session, you will be invited to connect with Nature through a variety of simple exercises or reflections. This usually involves participants spending time quietly sitting or standing and observing the environment around them. As the guide, I share the principles and insights of the practice and invite you to try simple sensory exercises. The forest is very much the therapist and what people see, feel, and experience is unique to the individual. Some exercises are quiet and introspective whilst others are more fun and playful.

There are opportunities to share insights and observations but this is not expected or forced. I also hold a tea ceremony at the end with some healthy snacks.

Places are limited as group sizes are kept small. The space at Hever is very flat and the distance covered is short because the focus is on slowing down and paying attention. This makes it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. No previous experience in mindfulness, Qigong or forest bathing is required. All are welcome.

Please note the nearest toilets to the space are a 10 min walk away at the Golf Club.

SCHEDULE

9:50am – Meet at parking location which is provided upon booking10:00am – Welcome and gentle walk to location10:15am – Workshop begins with Qigong session11:00am – Forest Bathing session begins12:30pm – Tea & Snacks with Closing Circle and Reflections1:00pm – Close

WHAT TO WEAR AND BRING

Sensible comfortable clothes and supportive shoes

Waterproof jacket advisable in case of light showers

Water to stay hydrated

I will provide some snacks but you are welcome to bring additional

I provide a waterproof sit mat

In every Forest Bathing workshop, I have held, I am always deeply grateful to see a look of peace and contentment on the faces of the participants as they leave the forest. In our fast-paced lives, we rarely get the chance to find this kind of tranquillity and connection and it can be a very moving and comforting experience.