Forest Bathing
Held Monthly | 10:00 – 12:30
Emma Weaver leads regular soothing Forest Bathing experiences, guiding you on a slow-paced circular walk of around 5–5.5 km through our woodlands. In small, intimate groups, you’ll pause at several points along the trail for sensory and mindfulness exercises designed to calm a busy mind and deepen your connection with nature. These gentle invitations support relaxation, wellbeing and a more present, grounded state as you move through the forest.
Forest bathing is a relaxing outdoor spa for the mind providing many benefits to health and well-being. To hear about people’s experiences of Forest Bathing, take a look at the testimonials.
Private group bookings are available for groups of 4+ during the week. Please enquire via info@leonardsleegardens.co.uk for more information and to book.
Session Dates:
20 December
2026 Dates:
10 January
28 February
22 March
25 April
9 May
20 June
11 July
29 August
£40 per person | 10% Off for Leonardslee Members | Over 18s only | Garden entry and a hot drink included
Small intimate groups | Groups are a maximum of 10 people | Free parking for Members | Parking information | Hot drinks will be enjoyed after the session between 12:30 – 13:00
About Emma Weaver
Emma is a Forest and Nature Therapy Guide, Mindfulness Meditation Teacher and Holistic Therapist with more than 20 years of experience. She is passionate about helping people improve their wellbeing through mindfulness and nature connection, taking pride in supporting others to relax, de-stress and find moments of calm amidst everyday life.
Emma runs forest bathing sessions, wellbeing walks, workshops and retreats across West Sussex, making meditation accessible, enjoyable and grounded in techniques unique to Forest Bathing.
Testimonials
“Forest Bathing with Emma is a wonderful, unique experience. Emma is such a lovely, wise and informative teacher and at the end of the session, any tensions or stress have melted away. I feel calm and relaxed.” CE, Horsham
“Emma’s expert guidance in Forest Bathing, paired with the beauty of Leonardslee, provides the perfect antidote to the stresses modern life brings. After a few hours immersed in the woods, I can return to life feeling relaxed and restored. Like a spa for the mind, thank you so much for the experience.” Jo McCormick, Uckfield
“I’d never heard of Forest bathing before, and initially thought it was about sunbathing or perhaps even taking a bath amongst the trees or something like that! Wow, I couldn’t have been more wrong and I am so pleased that I gave it a try as it was a truly eye opening experience that has left me completely hooked! It is a fully immersive experience that allows you to step off of the merry-go-round of life and just enjoy being in the moment. I could feel all of my senses opening up and all of the tension in my mind and body disappearing as I listened to Mother Nature. Emma guided us so beautifully throughout our session, with gentle prompts and reminders to take in even the smallest of details such as the smell of moss or the way a leaf gently sways on a tree. In our busy world, it is so important to make time to be present and still both the mind and the heart. Thank you for such a wonderful session Emma, I can’t wait to attend another!” LH, Horsham
“Thank you to Emma for a beautiful forest bathing experience. She gently guided us through Leonardslea Gardens for different activities that grounded and connected us to nature. I saw trees in a whole new way! I felt so incredibly well and peaceful afterwards and would highly recommend it.” PD, Horsham
“Thank you Emma for your excellent introduction to Forest Bathing. I am truly hooked! I have found your sessions at Leonardslee extremely beneficial in reconnecting with nature and learning how to clear my mind and relax. Also, the coffee and chat with the other participants after the sessions is always enjoyable!” Linda, Horsham
What is Forest Bathing?
This Japanese practice is a process of relaxation; known in Japan as shinrin yoku. The simple method of being calm and quiet amongst the trees, observing nature around you whilst breathing deeply can help both adults and children de-stress and boost health and wellbeing in a natural way.
Scientific research has been done to measure the healing benefits derived from simply being in a Forest/Woodland setting in a mindful way. It also gives us a chance to enjoy our forests and green spaces more and encourages us to want to take more care of them.
These are some of the benefits reported after just 2 hours of Forest Therapy:
Reduces stress, anxiety and overwhelm
Improves and elevates mood
Lowers heart rate and blood pressure
Boosts immune system, stimulates NK cells
Has an anti-inflammatory effect
Decreases blood glucose levels
Stimulates creative energy
Helps you sleep better
What to bring
Participants are advised to wear sturdy footwear such as walking boots. Long sleeves, long trousers and socks are recommended to protect against scratches from undergrowth, insect bites and ticks. Layers are helpful, as the woodland can feel cold even in the summer.
Please bring a mat to lie on during the warmer months. In winter, a folding stool will be provided for comfort. Water and sun protection are also recommended.
This event takes place in all weather conditions, except during severe weather warnings for storms, high winds or heavy, persistent rain. Please check the forecast before your visit and dress accordingly.
Terms & Conditions
Please note that this event is not suitable for pregnant women or those who have difficulty walking.
No dogs allowed.
Cancellation: Customers to be notified 17:00 the day prior to the event if cancelled.
For further information please see terms and conditions.
Please note: that attendees email addresses will be shared with the event organiser and will be contacted directly by Emma Weaver to complete health and safety forms 24 hours prior to event. These forms must be completed prior to the workshop.