Winter in the New Forest is something special. It’s the season that urges you to embrace a quieter pace of life, away from the hustle of nearby towns and cities and choose to escape for a while, practising the art of forest bathing.
Quite often misunderstood, the practise of forest bathing can be incredibly restorative, especially at this time of year, following the excess of Christmas as we enter a new year.
Forest Bathing is quite simply the act of spending time in nature with intention. There is no expectation or need for distances to cover, or a requirement to rush, just being present amongst the trees is enough.
Winter is the perfect time to spend time in the forest, when everything has been stripped bare, and the practise can feel even more grounding and peaceful.
Where did Forest Bathing originate?
Forest bathing, also known as shinrin-yoku, originated in Japan and was said to be a practise to minimise stress, whilst reconnecting with the world in its most natural state. It isn’t about fitness, or needing to cover a large distance, but about walking slowly, stopping to stand still and notice the small details, and allowing your senses to lead the way.
In the New Forest, forest bathing is particularly easy due to the abundance of wildlife and natural beauty around every bend. Bare branches, moss-covered tree trunks and that morning frost invites you to join in, take stock and pause for a little while longer than you might usually.
Why Winter Is the Perfect Time
There is something extra calming about the New Forest during winter when the summer crowds have fully dispersed, and the landscape feels quieter, softer, more intimate. Footsteps of other walkers are muffled by the fallen leaves, making you feel like you could be the only person around for miles, and ponies drift softly across the heathland, the stillness of the atmosphere only broken by the sound of the wind through the trees.
Winter forest bathing provides a completely unique wellness break. Whilst cooler temperatures sharpen the senses, a more subdued colour palette encourages calmness and inner peace, allowing for reflection – the perfect antidote to those busy schedules and a modern lifestyle surrounded by screens.
Wellness Walks from Our New Forest Hotels
As a guest at one of our New Forest Hotels, you’re perfectly positioned, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the New Forest. Simply step outside the front door and you’ll be connected to the ancient woodland, open heathland and those winding forest paths leading you to hidden havens that were made for mindfulness.
Plenty of our seasonal visitors choose to start their day with a wander in the forest before breakfast, whilst others head off in the afternoon to enjoy that soft winter light. You don’t need to plan a route, or have a structure, simply let your curiosity guide you, take your time and fully immerse yourself in the winter wildlife.
Forest Bathing in Simple Steps:
Please don’t be put off by the concept of forest bathing, thinking that you need experience or equipment, all you need is the willingness to stop and slow down.
- Walk at a slow, steady pace
- Use all your senses, notice the feel of leaves underfoot whilst you listen to the sounds surrounding you
- Remember to breathe deeply and mindfully, letting the forest envelope you and bring a sense of calm
- Don’t focus on how long you are out for, even the shortest of walks can restore body and mind
Returning to Warmth and Comfort
Following a forest bathing session in winter, return to the comfortable embrace of our hotels, complete with cosy fireside seating in our lounges, and the warmth of a roaring fire or a hearty meal, or even the simple pleasure of sitting and escaping into a good book.
A Gentle Wellness Break
Balance fresh air with comfort this winter, and focus on wellness with a break in the New Forest to revitalise from within. Forest bathing in the New Forest is about fewer distractions, fewer demands, and remembering the importance of resetting, reconnecting and enjoying the beauty of the forest landscape in its natural beauty.
So, whether you are planning a short break, or a longer escape, your winter wellness break awaits. Let the forest lead the way.
