About Us
Who we are and what we are passionate about
Our Story
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 the original physiological research carried out in Japan. Gary and Olga are peer reviewed authors and are commited to further the research into the effectiveness of this nature based therapy.
Starting from a small team they have achieved significant momentum. In just a few years TFBI has grown to over 50 guides across the UK with many more in training. It has established links with over 20 universities with numerous research programmes underway. The Institute also works hard to raise awareness of the effectiveness of Forest Bathing+ and works closely with local and central government, charities and key policy makers to make Forest Bathing+ available to as many people who can benefit as possible.
Core Values
- Everyone deserves to be treated with compassion, kindness and equality
- Our decisions and actions should be guided by our heart
- We are always honest and open in our communication
- Our passion to achieve our aims is balanced with humility
We are a collective of amazing people striving to do great things together
We have built a supportive and nurturing environment for our team where we encourage honest and open communication. We love working with like-minded passionate people who care about the same things as we do. Our approach is inclusive and we encourage collaboration and a creative approach to problem solving.
Our Vision
- To fully research and understand the effect of spending time in nature Forest Bathing+ on the human health.
- For Forest Bathing+ to be available as a prescription option for doctors and health care professionals across the UK and Europe, being delivered by fully trained teams of Forest Bathing+ guides.
- To see communities and individuals able to boost their own health and wellbeing through a better understanding of the health benefits of nature.
- To protect and expand woodland environments and homes of critically endangered species through our research and activity
Our Mission
- Bring together government departments, the health care sector and charities to enable further research
- Roll out scientifically proven Forest Bathing+ through established medical channels to those in need
- Build a team of passionate, talented and confident Forest Bathing+ guides
- Cultivate a happy team where everyone is valued and treated equally
- Ensure everyone is aware of the health giving power of spending quality time in nature
To reduce inequalities in access to nature and to support the wellbeing of the general public, with a particular focus on supporting people from marginalised communities
Diversity, Equality and Inclusion
The Forest Bathing Institute is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce and our clients, and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our team to be truly representative of all sections of society and our customers, and for each team member to feel respected and able to give their best.