Dive into forest bathing in Edinburgh

Take a closer look at Edinburgh and, amidst the bustling streets and iconic architecture, you’ll find a peaceful activity that offers escapism from the stresses of modern life and reconnection with nature: the practise of forest bathing, or Shinrin-yoku.

Don’t worry – forest bathing isn’t about taking an actual bath in the woods. Instead it’s a mindful practice of slowing down and connecting with the natural world, which in turn can have a positive effect on mental health and overall well-being – all while enjoying the stunning green spaces Edinburgh has to offer.

This ancient Japanese tradition has been gaining popularity worldwide. By taking time out to immerse in nature, you can create time for reflection, relaxation  and rejuvenation, all while enjoying the stunning green spaces Edinburgh has to offer.

Fancy giving it a go, but have some questions – How do you get started? Can anyone do it? What are the health benefits? We spoke to Diana, Founder of Creative Roots in Nature to share her insights into the practice, its benefits, and what participants can expect from a forest bathing session in Edinburgh.

Forest bathing, (Shinrin-yoku) originated in Japan in the 1980s as a way to tackle rising stress and health concerns. Seeing the healing effects of time spent in nature, the Japanese government made it part of their public health programs. Today, it is a recognised wellness practice seen across the world.

How does forest bathing differ from spending time in nature? Diana explains “unlike a casual walk or hike, which often focuses on movement or destination, forest bathing is about slowing down, tuning into the sights, sounds, and textures around you, and fostering a deeper connection with the natural environment”. It’s less about physical activity and more about presence, stillness, and intentional awareness. Believed to offer health various benefits, the practice has been shown to reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve immune function. It enhances mood, reduces anxiety and depression, and fosters mindfulness, as well as encouraging deep breathing, which can aid respiratory health. Dianna adds, “on a cognitive level, spending time in the forest improves focus, creativity, and overall mental clarity”. In order to reap the full benefits, a typical session lasts between 2 and 3 hours.

As Diana points out, “Edinburgh’s beautiful parks, historic woodlands, and scenic landscapes makes it a fantastic place for forest bathing”. Whether it’s the nature reserve Hermitage of Braid with its majestic trees, or the peaceful setting of the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, there’s plenty of green spaces to choose from.

So, you’re ready to get started. Whether practising alone or in a group setting, both are equally fulfilling, although “a guided session offers thoughtfully designed sensory invitations and a supportive atmosphere, allowing for a richer, more immersive experience”. Diana suggests that best way to approach or engage with nature during the experience is to “slow down and engage all your senses. Walking slowly, paying attention to sounds, textures, and scents, and taking moments of stillness are all integral parts of the practice. Gentle breathing and guided sensory invitations, such as noticing the movement of leaves or feeling the textures of tree bark, help deepen the experience”. Her top tips for beginners include choosing a space that you feel comfortable in; using all your senses to take-in your environment – from the birds in the trees, to the textures underfoot; slowing down – remember this is not an arduous workout; and leaving your mobile switched off.

While you may think this is a spring or summer activity, the experience can be rewarding all year-round. “Spring brings fresh greenery, blossoms, and birdsong, creating a sense of renewal. Summer offers warmth, soft sunlight filtering through the trees, and rich, natural aromas, heightening sensory awareness. Autumn is rich with vibrant colours, crisp air, and the rustling of fallen leaves beneath your feet, adding a deeper connection to the surroundings. Winter brings a quiet, reflective mood, with bare trees revealing new perspectives and the refreshing smell of evergreens in the cold air”. And even Edinburgh’s ever-changing weather shouldn’t put you off, as Diana reflects, “even in wet weather, forest bathing remains deeply rewarding, as the rain enhances the forest’s scents and textures”.

And finally, we asked Diana what her ideal forest bathing experience in Edinburgh looks like. She muses this “takes place in a serene woodland, such as the Hermitage of Braid, where the soothing sounds of birdsong and flowing water create a calming atmosphere. It begins with a sensory awakening meditation, followed by a slow, mindful walk, noticing the textures of tree bark, observing the intricate patterns of leaves. Resting against a tree and breathing deeply allows for full immersion in the natural surroundings. The session concludes with a tea gathering, using locally foraged ingredients, offering a gentle and grounding transition back to daily life”. Not a bad way to find your flow in Edinburgh!

So, next time you find yourself in need of a reset, why not take the plunge and try forest bathing in Edinburgh – the perfect mindful escape into nature.

This project is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund