Breathe In, Slow Down, Tune Into Nature
Woodland Stillness with Powerful Benefits
If you’ve ever walked through a forest and felt a sense of peace settle over you, you’ve already experienced the essence of forest bathing.
At Faldonside Eco, nestled beside the River Tweed near Melrose and Galashiels in the Scottish Borders, we offer guided forest bathing sessions designed to help people reconnect with nature — and themselves.
But this isn’t just a wellness trend. It’s a practice backed by science, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, and increasingly recognised around the world for its impact on our physical and mental wellbeing.
What Is Forest Bathing?
Known as Shinrin-yoku in Japan, forest bathing is the mindful practice of spending time in woodland areas, deliberately engaging all your senses. There’s no hiking goal or destination. It’s about being, not doing.
Our guided walks encourage you to:
- Walk slowly through our ancient woods
- Breathe deeply and notice the scents of the forest
- Tune in to birdcalls, rustling leaves, and flowing water
- Observe details: bark textures, insects, rays of light
- Pause, sit, reflect, and simply ‘be’
The Proven Benefits
Research shows that time in woodlands can:
🌿 Reduce stress hormones
🌿 Lower blood pressure
🌿 Improve focus and creativity
🌿 Boost immune function
🌿 Alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression
Studies from Japan, South Korea, and across Europe have repeatedly shown that forest bathing positively affects both mental and physical health — often after just one session.
Why Faldonside?
Our estate is uniquely suited for this experience. With peaceful trails, riverside glades, and undisturbed woodland, it’s easy to lose yourself in the calm of nature — while our trained facilitators guide you safely and gently.
Sessions are small, inclusive, and require no previous experience. They’re ideal for:
- Individuals seeking calm and reconnection
- Teams on wellbeing days
- Groups exploring nature-based wellness
Ready to Try Forest Bathing?
Forest Bathing is part of our Wellbeing Experiences programme and available to book as a stand-alone session or as part of a day retreat.
Come along, breathe deeply, and feel the difference.
