Forest Bathing in the Woods at Oakley

Saturday 26th April 2025 – 1pm

As spring breathes life into our magical woodland, we are thrilled to open the gates for our exclusive Forest Bathing event at the Woods at Oakley in Wiltshire, UK. This special experience is for couples who are getting married in the woods, those who have previously celebrated their wedding here, and couples who have booked a viewing with us. Join Jola, our experienced facilitator, as she gently guides you through this enchanting journey, helping you unwind and connect with nature. It is a beautiful opportunity to immerse yourself in the tranquillity of this ancient woodland and to deepen your connection with each other.

a group of peoople sit in a woodland in summer, being led in a forest bathing activity

The Modern World

Many of us live a digital lifestyle where technology integrates into almost every aspect of our lives. Our society thrives on technological innovation and digital connectivity. The convenience of our digital companions is indisputable, and we have come to expect lightning-fast communication and instant access to information. We have learnt to manage the relentless notifications that demand our immediate attention and accepted the subtle erosion of our work-life boundaries. Whilst we revel in this digital revolution there is a growing concern that it is affecting our wellbeing in ways we do not yet fully realise.

In this fast-paced digital era our relationship with technology can lead to what has been termed as ‘tech burnout’. Our ceaseless connectivity, information overload and constant demands imposed by our digital devices is threatening our wellbeing. But what can we do to protect ourselves from the potential physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion experienced from prolonged and intensive engagement with technology?

a blonde woman sits in a bluebell woods holding a bouquet of flowers and smiling

What is Forest Bathing?

‘Shinrin Yoku’ or Forest Bathing emerged in Japan in the 1980s to help alleviate the symptoms of tech burnout. Early warning signs include constant fatigue, diminished productivity at work and emotional exhaustion and is often triggered by the pressure to be constantly digitally connected, creating an information overload that could overwhelm our cognitive capacity.

Forest Bathing is a practice which encourages relaxation and reduces the stress response. Research has found that spending time in woodlands can reduce our blood pressure, lower cortisol levels, and even boost our immune system through the trees release of phytoncide chemicals.

Whilst we host guided Forest Bathing events at the Woods at Oakley in Wiltshire, you can practice it yourself at home and enjoy the health benefits. It simply requires you to spend some time in nature. This could be a local woodland, park or even your garden – you just need to find some green space. The aim is not to go for a walk as a form of exercise, but to slow down and use all your senses to observe the natural world.

a wooden swing hangs from a tree in a bluebell wood

Forest Bathing: A Basic Guide

Here is a basic guide to get you started:

  1. Turn off all digital devices – you want to ensure that you are not disturbed so you can be present in the moment and enjoy your sensory forest experience.
  2. Slow down and move quietly through the forest, allowing yourself to see and feel more.
  3. Take some slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth.
  4. Breathe through your belly, not your chest. Let it rise and fall rhythmically.
  5. Perhaps sit a while and ask yourself – what can you see, feel, smell, hear and taste?
  6. Take joy in discovering the little wonders of the natural world, like a child might.
  7. Try not to think about your to do list or your problems – let them float away on the breeze.
  8. Be thankful for this moment and feel connected to the natural world.

a fairy door in a tree surrounded by plants

All About Jola

Our session at the Woods at Oakley will be led by Jola Pawlikowska – a Weaver of Magic, Priestess of the Goddess, Healer, Artist, and Alternative Practitioner. With a lifetime of experience guiding wellbeing, magical, and creative workshops, Jola blends her intuitive wisdom with artistic expression to facilitate healing and self-discovery. Her unique approach helps individuals and groups uncover meaningful insights, encouraging them to explore, reflect, and embrace their fullest potential.

“I am so looking forward to spending some nourishing time at the Woods at Oakley with you all. I have a gorgeous magical guided visualisation to share with you which will help you to de-stress, reconnect to yourself and the land around you.”

a photo of a woman with pink hair smiling and leaning against a tree

Our Forest Bathing event takes place on Saturday 26th April 2025 at 1pm in The Woods at Oakley, outside of Salisbury in Wiltshire, UK. Pre-booking is required so please email [email protected] to reserve your space. We can’t wait to see you there!

For even more inspiration on how to stay relaxed and connected to nature during your wedding journey, read our blog on how to calm pre-wedding nerves here.