About this Event
Step away from the busyness of everyday life and spend two unhurried hours in the woodland.
During this guided session, we'll walk slowly through the trees of SE9, using a variety of simple mindfulness and sensory exercises to help you become more aware of the natural world around you - and perhaps a little more aware of yourself too.
There's no previous experience of Shinrin Yoku, meditation or mindfulness required. I'll guide you throughout, offering invitations to notice, listen, breathe, explore and simply be.
Each session will be a little different, shaped by the season, the weather and what the woodland has to offer. We might pause to listen to birdsong, explore the textures and colours around us, practice mindful breathing, or simply sit quietly beneath the trees.
You don't need to achieve anything or clear your mind. This is time to slow down and notice what is already there.
A taster, a reset or simply two hours for yourself
Whether you're compeltly new to forest bathing and would like to see what it is all about, or you already know how good it feels to spend time mindfully in nature, these standalone sessions offer an opportunity to press pause in our busy lives.
Come along for a taster session or to reset after a busy week, and spend time outdoors in good company.
What to expect
The session lasts approximately two hours and will be deliberately unhurried. We'll walk slowly, with regular pauses for guided activities and quiet reflection.
Group size is limited to 12 people, creating a small and supportive environment where there is plenty of space to experience the woodland at your own pace.
You don't need to talk about anything personal or share your experience with the group. You are equally welcome to be quiet and simply enjoy being there.
About Shinrin Yoku
Shinrin Yoku originated in Japan and is often translated as forest bathing.
It isn't about taking a bath or covering a particular distance - it's about spending time in a natural environment with an intention to slow down and engage your senses.
There is a growing body of research into the effects of spending time in forests. Studies of Shinrin Yoku have found associations with lower blood pressure and heart rate, reduced stress and anxiety, and improvements in mood and wellbeing. Researchers have also explored the role of natural compounds released by trees, known as phytoncides, alongside the benefits of slowing down and engaging with our surroundings.
The science is interesting, but you don't need to understand any of it to enjoy forest bathing. The exercises during these sessions are simply ways of helping you pause, shift your attention away from everyday demands and become more aware of the sights, sounds, smells, textures and sensations around you.
These sessions are not therapy or a substitute for medical or psychological treatment. They are an opportunity to spend mindful, restorative time in nature, with the potential wellbeing benefits that research is beginning to demonstrate.
Session Detail
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Group Size: Maximum 12 people
Pace: Slow and gentle
Location: Shooters Hill, London SE18
Experience: No previous experience necessary
What to bring: Something to sit on the ground on - a coat is ideal.
Sessions will take place outdoors in a woodland environment, so please dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable footwear for uneven ground. The session will go ahead whatever the weather unless there is perceivable danger from wind or rain.
Ready to slow down?
Leave your to-do list and the rush of everyday life behind for a couple of hours. Come into the woods, take a breath, and see what you notice.
Making Shinrin Yoku Accessible
For every five places booked, I offer a free place to someone referred through social prescribing. This helps make the benefits of spending time in nature accessible to people who might not otherwise be able to afford a session.
If you have a prescription for Forest Bathing from a Greenwich or Bexley borough GP please contact me directly to be added to the waiting list.
By booking a session with Katie Smith, you confirm that:
You agree to the full Terms & Conditions (available on request and summarised below)
- You take part at your own risk and are responsible for your own wellbeing
- You will follow guidance given during the session
- You will come appropriately dressed and prepared for the outdoors
- You will inform me in advance of any relevant health conditions or access needs (7 days where possible)
- You understand the 48-hour cancellation policy
These sessions are designed to be supportive, relaxed, and enjoyable—thank you for helping create a safe and welcoming space for everyone. By booking and/or attending, you confirm that you have read, understood, and agree to these Terms & Conditions and Disclaimer.
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Shooters Hill, Shooters Hill, London, United Kingdom
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