Immerse yourself in the natural world for a day of woodland inspired wellness, including healing forest bathing and calming crafting.
Woodlands are the perfect place to connect with the cycle of the seasons, so as we head through spring and into the warmer summer months, join us in the Blean to celebrate the wonders of nature on this wellness retreat.
We'll start the day in the grounds of the Heather Corrie Ranger Station, getting creative with natural materials. We'll go on a short walk to do some wildlife-friendly foraging for seasonal greenery, before using willow rods to weave a hoop. Once you've woven in your finds from the woodland, this will make a beautiful, seasonal decoration to take away with you. Hung on your front door or inside your home, it's sure to bring the spirit of late-spring into your life.
Once your creations are complete, we'll enjoy a light, vegan lunch around the fire in the garden and prepare to venture deeper in to the woods. The afternoon will be spent forest bathing, an opportunity to simply 'be' in nature, inspired by the Japanese practice of Shirin Yoku. You'll be guided through the trees and encouraged to connect to the environment around you using your senses, helping you switch off and reduce stress.
We'll take some time to pause for a guided meditation, but this is an invitation only so don't worry if you're not sure this is for you. The main aim of the day is to give you the opportunity to connect with the woodland in ways you feel comfortable, so you're encouraged to do whatever feels right for you in the moment.
We'll then return to the Ranger Station gardens for some herbal teas and the chance to reflect on the day before heading home- hopefully feeling calm, refreshed and inspired by the natural world.
If you've tried our Forest Bathing or Crafting with Nature sessions before, this retreat is the perfect way to connect to the woods even more deeply. However, no experience is needed to join this event and everyone is welcome- whether you're a long term lover of woodlands, or are just starting to explore the great outdoors in your spare time, we look forward to meeting you! Bring a friend, or come alone and meet some like-minded souls.
The Nature Retreat will be led by Louise and Nina. They are both members of Kent Wildlife Trust's Wellbeing Team and qualified Forest School practitioners, with years of experience delivering practical, nature-based activities.
Whilst forest bathing, we'll be walking slowly and may stop to sit on the ground or trees, so please bring layers to keep you warm and something waterproof. Walking boots are recommended as we're exploring woodland (which will be uneven and probably muddy in places), and it's best to be hands free- so pack light with a small backpack. Please bring a bottle of water with you to keep you hydrated, and some sun protection as we will be outdoors all day.
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Toilets
Partially accessible
This event involves exploring the woods, so expect uneven ground and hazards from the natural environment such as exposed tree roots. There may be invitations to sit on the ground during the session, although this can be adapted to make the practice accessible for you. Please let us know of any allergies, health or access information that may be relevant when completing your booking.