FOREST BATHING+
MINDFULNESS IN NATURE
World Leading Body for Research, Training and Events
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NEW 2024!
TFBI Academy Launches
We’re delighted to launch The Forest Bathing Institute Academy.
Following many requests, we’re expanding our training to a range of online (study at your own pace) courses that can strengthen your connection with nature and help you get more from your Forest Bathing practice.
Personal development and growth of awareness are at the heart of our work. All TFBI Academy courses encourage a greater sense of serenity and peace within. So you can facilitate greater feelings of connection with nature, whichever course you choose.
JOIN FB+ LIVE TRAINING Q & A
2025 January Wednesday 15th @ 6 PM (London time) – 1 PM (EST US) via Zoom with Gary Evans, TFBI Founder
Winners of the prestigious Forest and Health Innovation Challenge
Our Story - Updated January 2024
The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI) founders Gary and Olga, set out to advance the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku (Forest Bathing) in the UK and started a programme of research dedicated to replicating and expanding the original physiological research carried out in Japan. Forest Bathing+ is a slow, mindful walk in the woodland, where you are guided through a series of sensory experiences proven to reduce stress and anxiety.
TFBI is working with a large volume of universities on various studies to expand the research into the effectiveness of this nature-based therapy, which is already available via social prescribing in Surrey. Over the next few years, the aim is to see it available more widely on the NHS.
We run regular sessions for the public, government, the NHS, mental health charities, corporate groups and media. Please get in touch if you would like to learn more.
TFBI runs a full training programme for new guides. All guides receive comprehensive training to lead groups in Forest Bathing+ and mindfulness. If you would like to discover more, check out our training section & TFBI Academy (online learn at your own pace courses).
If you are new to forest bathing, why not join us at one of our public events and experience the fantastic relaxation benefits for yourself?
We are dedicated to delivering the benefits of nature and mindfulness to as many as possible, including the most vulnerable in society. The sessions we have run for those most in need have expanded our hearts and brought a tear to our eyes.
Scientific Advisor
Prof Li
The Forest Bathing Institute is delighted to announce that world renowned forest medicine expert, and one of the founding figures behind the science of Shinrin-Yoku or Forest Bathing, Professor Qing Li has been appointed as its Scientific Adviser.
Our Patron
Dame Judi Dench
“I am delighted to be a Patron for The Forest Bathing Institute. As humans, we have such a deep connection to trees and woodland. Forest bathing allows you to focus on that connection, engaging all your senses."
BBC People Fixing the World
The healing power of forests
We were delighted to be interviewed by the BBC People Fixing the World radio programme. You can listen to the programme via the below button.
We are delighted to announce our latest peer-reviewed paper.
This groundbreaking research was conducted in July 2022 into the air quality of forests versus a walled garden environment reveals highly beneficial compounds found in the air, which aid physiological health and wellbeing.
Join Us For A Forest Bathing Experience
Epping Forest
Box Hill, Surrey
Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire
Newlands Corner, Surrey
Quarry Bank, Cheshire
Leith Hill, Surrey
Alice Holt, Farnham,
RSPB The Lodge, Bedfordshire
Wendover Woods, Chilterns
+ Many more locations
We're at Kew Gardens
New season starts April 24!
You can now also take a slow, guided sensory walk in Kew Gardens. Immerse yourself in the green world of their Pinetum and clear your head, relax more deeply, and improve your sleep. Booking is via the Kew Gardens website.
Sign up for news and updates!
If you love nature connection, mindfulness and forest bathing you can be the first to hear our latest news and research plus forest bathing tips, events, training and more.
THE ORIGINS OF FOREST BATHING
Shinrin Yoku
Around 40 years ago the Japanese started researching the benefits of spending time in nature, to be specific forests. The results were startling and so significant that this therapy is now delivered on their health service. The therapy is called Shinrin Yoku: Forest Bathing.
Forest Bathing+
Taking the principles of Shinrin Yoku Forest Bathing+ (FB+) is unique to TFBI and is based on the results of hundreds of sessions and scientific research. Also termed mindfulness in nature, FB+ harnesses the power of nature through engaging the senses, grounding, and meditation.
Event Programme
Following the Covid shutdown we have now reestablished a large national events programme. Many of our events are also in and around our base in the Surrey Hills, an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty with ancient woodland. We work in conjunction with landowners, for example RSPB, National Trust, Forestry England, RHS and Surrey County Council and are always happy to hear from landowners and managers.
Science and Research
Forest Bathing+ as pioneered by TFBI now has robust data from several universities to evidence the numerous benefits from our government funded sessions for mental health charities. We have also assisted with ground breaking UK research on the chemistry of forest air (see our recent peer-reviewed paper). At TFBI one of our main aims is to continue to replicate and expand upon the original physiological studies carried out in Japan. We started our first research programme in 2019 and are now in discussions with over 20 universities on various different studies with a number at various stages of development. We are increasingly recognised as a global leader in the evidence base related to nature and health.
Forest Bathing+ Guide Training
Are you seeking a vocation that involves helping people relax in amazing woodland locations, which can also encourage personal growth and inner awareness? Our Forest Bathing Guide training is an intensive and personally rewarding journey now available in England, Scotland and Wales. We are now delivering a programme which combines online and in-person elements, making it our most accessible training to date! We have students joining us from across the world as a result.
