Photo credit: www.rhs.org.uk
Forest Bathing Garden by Muscular Dystrophy UK won Best Show Garden in this year’s Chelsea Flower Show. It was designed as a much needed place of solace and reflection for those affected by muscular dystrophy as well as others who find going into woodland challenging. The design of the garden sought to awaken our imagination and our connection to nature by bridging a gap between us and the natural world.
Accessible forest bathing offers the benefits of forest bathing: reduced stress and anxiety, improved cardiovascular health, enhanced immune function, mood enhancement, increased focus and cognition function, and better sleep. Accessible forest bathing, can foster a deeper connection with the natural environment, which can be spiritually uplifting and emotionally fulfilling. A natural setting encourages mindfulness and relaxation, promoting mental wellbeing.
For those physically or mentally disabled, the enhanced accessibility has further benefits which should be considered. Accessible forest bathing can provide a space for socialisation and community building among the participants and their caregivers or family members. Accessibility allows everyone to enjoy the benefits of nature, fostering a sense of equality. Gentle walks or movement in nature can be part of physical rehabilitation, offering a pleasant alternative to indoor therapy sessions. Nature-based activities can help improve fine and gross motor skills. Accessible trails enable everyone to explore nature independently or with minimal assistance, promoting a sense of independence. Overcoming challenges in natural settings can boost confidence and a sense of achievement.
The holistic benefits of accessible forest bathing, encompassing physical, mental, social, and emotional wellbeing, ensures that individuals with disabilities can fully experience and enjoy the therapeutic effects of nature.
Accessible Forest Bathing at West Horsley Place
It is lovely to see that forest bathing is accessible to those who find it difficult to walk in woodlands around us. If you or someone you know is interested in an accessible forest bathing experience, I will be leading a forest bathing session in the sensory garden at West Horsley Place on 24 September 2024.
The Sensory Garden at West Horsley Place has been chosen as the location for this session because of its rich planting and wildlife; and its proximity to the house and gardens. The sensory garden is approximately 250m from their main carpark including some areas of gravel and short cut grass. The paths of the sensory garden are short cut grass. Due to limited availability this must be pre-booked. Please call West Horsley Place on 01483 282032 or e-mail info@westhorsleyplace.org.uk to discuss this possibility.
