Among the Trees: A Forest Therapy Session with Lily | Rest & Restoration, Nature's Healing

_Step out of the rush. Step into the trees. _

Forest Therapy, also known as Shinrin-Yoku, or “forest bathing”, is a guided experience in nature designed to support your physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. It is not a walk with a destination. It is an invitation to arrive, to notice and to rest within the living world around you.

A typical session lasts about two to three hours in a peaceful woodland setting. Moving at a relaxed pace, you’ll be guided through gentle invitations to notice and engage with the natural world around you. Unlike a hike or nature walk, Forest Therapy isn’t about reaching a destination, it’s about being present and fully absorbing your surroundings. You’ll pause often for sit spots, guided meditations and sensory invitations that help attune you to the sights, sounds and textures of the forest. There may be opportunities for gentle movement and playful exploration, depending on the group and season. Each session follows a clear, nature inspired structure, creating a fresh and meaningful experience every time. We close with a tea ceremony and optional sharing circle which gives you a quiet moment to reflect, connect with others and simply be, with no pressure to speak.

There is no pressure or performance and no particular way to do it right. This time in the trees belongs entirely to you. Space for you to slow down and feel supported by nature's healer.

Why does it work?

Research shows that time spent in forest environments lowers cortisol (our primary stress hormone), calms the nervous system and activates the body’s natural restorative state. Trees release compounds called Phytoncides, which have been linked to a strengthened immune function. Regular practice supports better sleep, reduced anxiety, improved mood and a deeper sense of grounded-ness. The effects of just two hours in nature can last for up to 30 days!

Perhaps more simply… when we slow down enough to truly arrive in nature, something in us remembers how to rest.

This session is suitable for all fitness levels and all states of being, whether you come weary, curious or simply in need of a pause. You are welcome exactly as you are.

• Suitable for all abilities, no prior experience or fitness levels needed
• Wear comfortable layers (best to bring a jumper too!) and sturdy footwear
• Be aware that we will be outside for the entirety of the session and being cautious of hazards. By booking, you confirm that you understand this session takes place in a natural woodland setting and accept the inherent risks of being outdoors, including uneven ground, tree roots, mud, insects, changing weather and other naturally occurring hazards.
• Please ensure you have enough water with you for the session
• A Herbal/Foraged Tea Ceremony will be provided at the end, feel free to bring your own mug!
• You are welcome to bring a journal/notebook and pen if you would like
• I would also recommend bringing a rucksack or bag with you (ideally one where you can be hands free) to help carry a mug, journal, belongs etc

About me…

I am a Forest Therapy Practitioner, nature artist and founder of Moss & Mind (formerly Tawny Studios), a nature immersion creative and wellbeing practise based in and around the Cotswolds. I bring a background in hospitality, arts facilitation and accessibility advocation and support, alongside a lifelong relationship with herbalism, foraging, creating, slow living and the more than human world. My approach is unhurried, relationship and rooted in a deep respect for the land. I believe that creativity and nature connection are not luxuries or fun to do but they are how we remember who we are and come back home…

I came to Forest Therapy the long way, through years of finding that the only place I truly exhaled was outside. In nature, something in me remembered itself!

I believe we are living through a profound disconnection, from the seasons, from the living world, from each other and from our own bodies. This disconnection underlies so much of the anxiety, exhaustion, sense of lostness and unfulfillment I often see around me. Forest Therapy is one of the most gentle but direct antidotes I know. My practise matters to me because I have felt what is possible when someone is truly held by nature and I want to offer that to others. I work particularly with people who are seeking rest, restoration and a return to themselves, perhaps those carrying the weight of busy lives or a quiet longing they can't quite name.

The change I am seeking to make is simple…more people feeling at home in the world, living with the natural world around us. It is my honour to guide you.

Please don't hesitate to get in touch if you have any further access needs, sensory requirements, allergies or questions on 07399340886 or mossandmindconnect@gmail.com

Your safety and wellbeing are a priority in every session. All activities are low risk, and you’re never asked to do anything beyond your comfort. Sessions take place in well chosen areas with clear boundaries and regular check ins. I’m a fully trained First Aider and carry a first aid kit at all times. Risk assessments are in place and care is taken to adapt to the needs of each group or individual.

With warmth,

Lily x