Forest Healing

07/02/2026

Waterfall of the Day … and a Herdwick Sheep!

04/02/2026

03/02/2026

Nature as therapy: research shows how the outdoors can help us to heal

Nature-based therapy may help people to find hope, meaning and a deeper sense of connection, according to new research from The University of Manchester.

The study - published in journal Ecopsychology - examined a form of outdoor therapy called ‘ecotherapy’ which includes activities such as walking in woodland, spending time near water, gardening or sitting quietly in nature with a trained therapist. By reviewing studies from around the world, the researchers explored how people described their most meaningful moments during these experiences.

Many people spoke about moments in nature that helped them process pain, let go of the past and rediscover a sense of purpose. Rather than techniques or theories, participants described simple experiences - watching trees grow and decay, feeling the wind on their face or sitting quietly in a forest and feeling part of something larger.

Some described nature as a mirror for their own lives. Seeing natural cycles of growth and renewal helped them accept difficult experiences and feel more present. Others spoke about a strong sense of connection and belonging which brought comfort and made personal problems feel more manageable.

Importantly, these experiences were not linked to religion - people from different backgrounds described spirituality in their own words, focusing on connection, awe and meaning rather than belief.

The study suggests these moments can have lasting effects, helping people accept themselves, release emotional pain and find new direction. At a time of widespread anxiety about the future, the study highlights how connecting with nature may support mental health and foster hope.

Nature-based therapy may help people to find hope, meaning and a deeper sense of connection, according to new research from The University of Manchester.The study - published in journal Ecopsychology - examined a form of outdoor therapy called ‘ecotherapy’ which includes activities such as walki...

03/02/2026

Princess Kate helps volunteers with mental health by shining a light on nature-led therapy helping Britain’s hidden heroes

When the Princess of Wales went for windswept ridges in the Peak District this week, it wasn’t a fashion shoot, it was goodwill at full throttle.

On Tuesday, Catherine joined UK mental health charity Mind Over Mountains for a brisk guided walk, punctuated by laughter, genuine chats, and a few muddy boots.

The charity, which blends fresh air with professional wellbeing coaching, has carved out a reputation for using the great outdoors as a kind of “natural therapy room.”

When the Princess of Wales went for windswept ridges in the Peak District this week, it wasn't a fashion shoot, it was goodwill at full throttle. On Tuesday, Catherine joined UK mental health charity Mind Over Mountains for a...

01/02/2026

Today is the Gaelic Festival of Imbolc, or St, Brigid's Day.

It marks the midway point between the Winter Solstice and the Vernal Equinox. Rooted in ancient Gaelic traditions, this festival symbolises the awakening of the Earth from its Winter slumber and the anticipation of Spring's arrival.

One of the most iconic symbols associated with Imbolc is Brigid's Cross, woven from reeds or straw. This cross is traditionally placed above doorways to invoke the protection of the goddess. Imbolc is also often celebrated with the lighting of candles, symbolising the returning light and warmth of the sun. Some households keep a flame burning throughout the night as a representation of Brigid's eternal fire.

31/01/2026

Tomorrow - February 1st - is the Celtic festival of Imbolc. It marks the midway point between Winter and Spring in the Celtic Wheel of the Year. Rooted in ancient Gaelic traditions, this festival symbolises the awakening of the Earth from its Winter slumber and the anticipation of Spring's arrival.
Imbolc has its origins in Celtic paganism and is deeply connected to the goddess Brigid, who is associated with Spring, fertility, healing, and poetry. The festival is believed to have been observed for thousands of years, celebrating the changing seasons and the promise of new life. As Christianity spread through Ireland and beyond, the pagan celebration appears to have been seamlessly merged with the feast day of St. Brigid, a prominent Irish saint known for her compassion and generosity.
Imbolc is typically celebrated on February 1st or 2nd, aligning with the midpoint between the Winter Solstice and the Vernal Equinox. This timing reflects the ancient agricultural importance of preparing for the upcoming planting season, as well as the growing strength of the Sun, symbolising the return of longer days and warmer temperatures.
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February 1st is the Gaelic Festival of Imbolc, or St, Brigid's Day. It marks the midway point between the Winter Solstice and the Vernal Equinox. It symbolises the awakening of the Earth from its Winter slumber and the anticipation of Spring's arrival. It has its origins in Celtic paganism and is de

30/01/2026

This is something that I am super keen on everyone doing, especially as I am an ambassador for Trash Free Trails!

30/01/2026

How ‘forest bathing’ keeps lungs healthy

Wooded environments release organic compounds that seem to improve respiratory health, but the magnitude and mechanism of the effect remains unclear.

In Japan, forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) is the traditional practice of spending time in the woods for one’s health.

Forests and nature are widely known to buffer humans from respiratory conditions, such as asthma, that are exacerbated by air pollution from cars and industry. Forests are mostly free of these pollution sources, and particles that drift in from urban areas are intercepted by leaves. Forests are also cooler than cities, thanks to the water vapour that plants release during photosynthesis. Higher urban temperatures combined with pollution can form smog, which causes respiratory distress.

Wooded environments release organic compounds that seem to improve respiratory health, but the magnitude and mechanism of the effect remains unclear.

30/01/2026

Waterfall of the Day (from the archives!)