Forest Bathing Around The World
Escape to places where nature's therapeutic benefits are woven into your stay...
Welcome to a different kind of escape – one where the most profound rejuvenation comes not from a bustling city or endless activity, but from the quiet embrace of the natural world. In our fast-paced lives, finding true peace can feel elusive, but what if your next holiday could offer a proven path to calm and profound well-being? Enter Forest Bathing.
Originating in 1980s Japan as shinrin-yoku, or "taking
in the forest atmosphere," Forest Bathing is far more than just a walk in
the woods. It's a meditative practice that invites you to mindfully immerse all
your senses in nature's healing power. Imagine time slowing as you breathe in
the earthy scent of moss, hear the gentle rustle of leaves overhead, and truly
feel present amidst a lush canopy of green. This mindful connection to the
natural world has gained global recognition for its remarkable benefits:
reduced stress, improved mood, enhanced cognitive function, boosted immune
response, and a deep sense of calm and belonging.
If the thought of escaping to a place where nature's
therapeutic benefits are woven into your stay resonates with you, then keep
reading. In this blog, I have shared 7 amazing hotels around the world that are
embracing this ancient practice, offering incredible opportunities to
experience Forest Bathing and truly reconnect with yourself.
Every holiday booked through me contributes to my partner
charity TreeSisters, giving you
peace of mind knowing that your travel experience will help fund new projects
to ethically restore the rainforest and the planet through community-led
projects that improve socioeconomic outcomes with women and community at their
core.
Find out more about Forest Bathing, and TreeSisters,
including a free downloadable guide to Forest Bathing here.
India
Listed as ‘One of the World’s Greatest Places’ by TIME
Magazine in 2018, this 5 star deluxe hotel in New Chandigarh: The Oberoi
Sukhvilas has been carefully designed with your utmost comfort in mind. Be it a
weekend retreat or a month-long detox, the personalised Ayurvedic and wellness
programmes are complemented by accommodation in spacious villas and luxury
tents, fine seasonal cuisine, mindfulness activities in the surrounding forest
and a sincere commitment to your wellbeing.
Set within 3,23,74,851 Square Metres of protected natural forest, The Oberoi Sukhvilas is the perfect place to experience the calming, neurologically beneficial therapy of forest bathing or "taking in the forest atmosphere". Step inside the Siswan Forest, breathe deeply, allow yourself to switch off from the world and your whole system will tune in to nature’s vibrations. The medicine of being in the forest is said to boost the immune system, reduce blood pressure and stress, lift the mood, increase energy levels, improve sleep and much more.
New Zealand
Rainforest, Franz Josef Glacier
Nestled amongst the Southern Alps close to Franz Josef
Glacier and countless scenic spots, Rainforest is the perfect base to explore
New Zealand’s Glacier Country and the wild West Coast.
The Rainforest Retreat offers an unparalleled setting for those seeking the transformative experience of forest bathing. Surrounded by lush ancient rainforests, this unique accommodation provides a seamless blend of luxury and nature, making it effortless for guests to immerse themselves in the calming environment while enjoying their stay.
Australia
Silky Oaks Lodge, Daintree Rainforest
Whether plunging into pristine primaeval rainforest, dipping
into a cooling billabong, or simply sinking into a swaying hammock, a stay at
Silky Oaks Lodge is truly immersive. A soundscape of trilling insects,
chirruping tropical birds and whooshing river certainly adds to the
delightfully multisensory experience. Perfume from the (allegedly
aphrodisiacal) ylang-ylang tree hangs heavy in the steamy air, further arousing
the senses. An eight-figure makeover also gave the treehouse retreat a
self-assured polish, though with an understated aesthetic that always puts its
enchanting jungle surrounds centre stage – and immerses you in it.
Rainforest bathing takes on a new meaning at Silky Oaks
Lodge. Soak up the sounds and the serenity of the Daintree from your private
deck with a bathtub and open-air shower in your very own Treehouse Retreat.
Costa Rica
Hotel Belmar, Monteverde
The family-run Hotel Belmar was one of the first hotels to
open in Monteverde, but the owners' commitment to the upkeep of the hotel, its
décor and amenities for guests also make it one of the best in the area. It
remains current with modern concepts, such as its on-site micro-brewery, its
craft cocktails and juice bar, and its farm-to-table spa and restaurant.
The hotel itself comprises two buildings built in the style
of a Swiss chalet with rustic wooden furniture throughout, its own nature trail
in the grounds and beautiful views.
Curated experiences are led by a team of professional Forest
and Mobility Experts in pursuit of an inspired purpose: To explore the forest’s
layered wonders in a heightened state of amazement. Trails, gardens, platforms,
zip-lines, rappels, suspension bridges, UV light, scientific research tools,
and other surprise elements prompt participants to continually shift gears and
perspective to kindle curiosity, adrenaline, and bliss.
Japan
Amanemu, Kansai
Forest Bathing and Meditation in Ise Jingu Sacred Forests.
Forest bathing at Amanemu offers a chance to step into
nature to let go of thoughts and gently reconnect with your body and mind.
Accompanied by a dedicated trainer, visit nearby mystical forests that extend
from the sacred groves of Ise Jingu. As you walk and breathe in the vitality of
the greenery, meditation and breathing exercises create an overall feeling of
calm.
Following the session, the opportunity awaits to visit
Izawa-no-miya, a subordinate shrine of Ise Jingu known as a spiritual power
spot for breath and life energy.
Italy
My Arbor, Dolomites
My Arbor is a unique 5-star wellness "tree hotel"
nestled on stilts amidst a spruce forest in the Dolomites, South Tyrol, Italy.
This adults-only retreat is designed to offer a deep connection with nature and
a focus on holistic well-being.
Among its comprehensive wellness offerings, My Arbor
provides guided forest bathing sessions (Shinrin-yoku). These sessions allow
guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding natural environment, which is
known to lower blood pressure, reduce stress, improve mood, and promote a sense
of peace. The hotel's extensive "SPA Arboris" also features various
pools, saunas, and relaxation zones, all complementing its nature-inspired
approach to rejuvenation.
Slovenia
Vila Planinka, Jezersko valley
Relais Vila Planinka is situated in the picturesque valley
of Jezersko in Slovenia, surrounded by Alps, boasting extraordinary natural
wonders and a healing climate. Here, you
will feel a natural energy that has a beneficial effect on your well-being. You
will slow down, harmonizing your rhythm with your inner balance.
Vila Planinka boasts a special kind of energy. Centuries
ago, the locals discovered four energy points with a soothing and therapeutic
effect in the villa's backyard. Here, you will feel a natural energy paired
with the power of centuries-old forests and clear streams, all of which will
have a beneficial effect on your well-being. You will slow down, harmonising
your rhythm with your inner balance.
Get in touch with your inner self and your senses by taking
part in a guided forest-bathing session, practice mindfulness and relieve the
stress caused by the modern lifestyle.
