Joanna Bristow Watkins

ConnectingWithNature

  • Autumn Forest Bathing with Harmony in Nature

    WhatsApp Image 2021 07 24 at 10.41.45 7

    Join us for Forest Bathing, 11am-1pm, Sunday 14th November within semi-ancient private woodland. We spend two hours in the peaceful grounds of the Harry Edwards Healing Sanctuary, Shere. Cost is £25. 🍁
    ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
    Later this month, 11am-1.30pm, Saturday 27th November, we are offering our first weekend event at Cannon Hill, London SW20. This 2½ hour session costs £35.🍂
     
    Many of our sessions are offered at school drop-off friendly timings to enable busy parents to savour some 'me time'. This is our first weekend event in SW20, normally they are weekdays at this time. We can offer a closed session before end of term if we have 4-12 participants, and would be hapy to pay 10% to any organising PTAs or social groups. 👩‍👧‍👦
     
    Our Harmony in Nature woodland sessions deliver the restful yet therapeutic benefit of guided mindfulness sensory activities with fellow nature lovers. 🌲
     
    To book our 'harmony in nature' therapeutic sessions see https://bit.ly/FBSessions or, to receive our nature connection mailings, email 💻
     
    Next month we have winter sessions at Newlands Corner (Saturday 4th) and Horsell Common (Monday 6th, school pick-up friuendly timings of 10.30am-1pm), plus Harry Edwards again on Saturday 11th. ❄
     
    Forest Bathing (no swimming involved!) is an evidence based wellbeing activity. As well as boosting the immune system for 2-4 weeks, balancing blood pressure and reducing blood sugars, typically participants feel a reduction in anxiety (and rumination) and a sharp improvement in concentration afterwards. 🌲
     
    To find out how it differs from a dog walk or stroll in the woods, see our recent Blog https://bit.ly/WhyForestBathe🌿
     
    When we have the right clothing and footwear, usually plenty of layers, and a spare, we can happily stay outdoors for hours. Even longer if we take a hot drink and a snack! ☕🍏
    We sell Harmony in Nature Vouchers too. 🎁
     
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    WHAT MAY HAPPEN AS A RESULT OF FOREST BATHING?
     
    Forest bathing, and in particular Forest Bathing+, which we embrace at Harmony In Nature and through our training at The Forest Bathing Institute, could be considered an amalgam of nature therapy, mindfulness and meditation, as well as its own thing. As such, there are decades of scientific research into what happens when we experience nature, do things mindfully, breathe consciously or follow a guided meditation.

    The (mainly) Japanese research into forest bathing has shown that we may potentially experience any or several of the following:

    • reduced stress and cortisol levels
    • improved heart and circulatory system
    • improved digestive and respiratory issues
    • reduced anxiety, depression and rumination
    • improved decision-making, motivation, creativity
    • increase in sense of connection with nature, self and others
    • balanced blood sugar
    • boosted immune function through increased production of 'Natural Killer'-NK-cells and anti-cancer proteins, lasting 2-4 weeks

    forest bathingFundamentally, it brings our nervous system back into balance, which regulates our hormones and our nervous system, and resets our mind and body functions. Some participants express experiencing emotions they hadn’t allowed themselves to feel recently, and this felt safe, and it passed. Some say how energised they felt, others how sleepy.

    In its simplest form, forest bathing combines the physiological benefits of nature’s presence with the meditative aspects of closely observing without judgement. What we feel as a result is ultimately influenced by what we each need at that point- sleep, energy, creativity, a sense of peace, wonderment. Our minds and bodies will give us what we need, when we allow them space to do so. That’s why we go forest bathing.

    Summary of remaining 2021 Forest Bathing+ Sessions with Joanna & Katie
    We have Harmony in Nature forest bathing sessions at:

    Harry Edwards Healing Sanctuary, Shere, 11-1 on Sunday 14th November
    Cannon Hill Common, London SW20, 11-1.30 on Saturday 27th November
    Newlands Corner, Guildford, Surrey, 10.30-12.30 on Saturday 4th December
    Horsell Common, Woking, Surrey, 10.30-1 on Monday 6th December
    Harry Edwards Healing Sanctuary, Shere, 11-1 on Saturday 11th December

    Book any of the above sessions via Harmony Healing Shop

    last session at newlands cornerImportant News about Newlands Corner
    Newlands Corner, our beautiful site in Guildford Surrey, have put up our site rental price so much that we don't know if we will be able to continue working there. So, if you want to join us Newlands Corner, please book in ASAP for one of our pre-Christmas dates as it ls unlikely to feature as a 2022 destination. We will be forced to cancel Newlands events one week before if numbers are low, so please don't leave it to a last minute booking or you stand to be disappointed.   

    Blog updates
    To receive Forest Bathing updates ONLY,  sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters on the above link and indicate receipt of the Forest Bathing mailings only.

    To receive all Blog updates (headed with a title detailing the occasion or event so that you can choose whether to open it or not), featuring New and Full Moon, meteor showers, eclipses and other meteorological events, interesting anniversaries, ancient festival dates plus notification of dates of numerological significance, sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters above or at the top of any page of this Harmony Healing website. The nature of the Blog means that whenever there are several key dates in close succession, there will be frequent mailings. The sender e-mail address is  (and the sender will show as Joanna Bristow-Watkins @ Harmony Healing). You may need to add this email to your safe list and check your junk filter initially.

  • Harmony in Nature

    Our Forest Bathing sessions are run by Harmony In Nature, founded by Joanna Bristow-Watkins and Katie Robinson in 2021.  See Harmony Shop for public session dates and to book
    🌳 For monthly Forest Bathing updates, moon dates, seasonal wisdom & celestial highlights: subscribe here.
    See September issue here.

    Experience how woodland can help your Physical, Mental & Emotional Health.

    Newands Corner

    🌿 Forest Bathing & Nature Therapy with Harmony in Nature

    Slow down, breathe deeply, and rediscover your natural rhythm

    At Harmony in Nature, we guide calming and rejuvenating Forest Bathing and Nature Therapy sessions in ancient and semi-ancient woodlands across Surrey and South London. These deeply restorative experiences combine mindfulness, meditation, and nature connection—supporting your mental, emotional and spiritual wellbeing.

    Led by experienced guides Joanna Bristow-Watkins and Katie Robinson, both certified by The Forest Bathing Institute, our sessions are suitable for individuals, private groups, charities and corporate teams alike.


    🍃 What is Forest Bathing?

    Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, Forest Bathing means "bathing in the atmosphere of the forest". It invites you to slow your pace and tune into the healing power of trees through your senses.

    🌲 Scientifically backed benefits include:
    – Reduced stress and anxiety
    – Improved immunity and sleep
    – Regulates blood pressure and blood sugar
    – Enhanced focus, memory, and creativity
    – Greater emotional balance and inner peace

    We integrate gentle sensory exercises, walking meditations, and nature mindfulness practices—sometimes with a spiritual or seasonal theme—to leave you feeling calm, centred, and deeply nourished.


    🌟 What Makes Forest Bathing Different?

    Wondering how Forest Bathing differs from a simple dog walk or stroll in the woods?
    Discover the mindful depth and subtle power of this practice on our blog:

    👉
    Why Forest Bathe?


    🤝 Private, Charity & Corporate Experiences

    Looking for a bespoke wellbeing event? We offer tailored Forest Bathing and Nature Therapy sessions for:

    🌿 Friends & family groups
    🌿 Charities & schools
    🌿 Businesses & wellbeing teams

    🕒 2–3 hour sessions from £444
    📍 Alternative venues can be arranged (subject to suitability)
    🗓  Minimum 3 weeks' notice for private group bookings

    Corporate Wellbeing Experiences:
    See our electronic brochure (pdf).
    Tailored sessions available – please enquire.

    We’ve collaborated with Mind Woking and other Surrey-based charities on multi-week programmes, receiving excellent feedback and tangible wellbeing outcomes.


    🌳 Our Public Sessions

    Our regular venue is the beautiful Harry Edwards Foundation near Shere, a healing sanctuary surrounded by semi-ancient woodland. Public sessions are typically 3 hours long (2½ hours in winter), and cost £39.77 per person.

    We have guided sessions at Horsell Common, Kew Gardens, RHS Wisley, National Trust and RSPB sites, amongst others.  We can also work at various locations by arrangement.

    🕊   Participants are asked to conduct sensory activities in silence to maximise personal and group benefit.
    🐾 Sorry, dogs are not permitted (except trained Guide Dogs).
    🌦   We run in all weathers—except high winds over 30mph—so come dressed for the elements.


    🌿 Meet the Guides

    Holding space for deep reconnection — with nature, yourself, and what truly matters

    At Harmony in Nature, our Forest Bathing sessions are guided by a small, trusted team of experienced and intuitive facilitators. We blend natural mindfulness, trauma-informed care, and spiritual depth to create meaningful and restorative experiences in woodland settings.

    Katie and Joanna were among the first two cohorts to be certified by The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI). Joanna brings valuable corporate insight from her earlier career as a Managing Director of a travel agency chain and senior industry trainer, adding an informed and relatable perspective for workplace wellbeing. Their combined approach is inclusive, grounded in scientific research, and enriched by years of spiritual and therapeutic practice.

    We are also regularly joined by Julli Dunman, a freelance guide and qualified mindfulness teacher, who brings warmth, calm presence, and over three decades of client-facing experience to the team.

    Jo at NC✨ Katie Robinson – Nature Educator & Wellness Facilitator

    Katie brings a vibrant, earth-loving energy to every session. Her early love of the outdoors was sparked on childhood adventures hiking the Lake District and North Yorkshire Moors. She has since completed two survival skills courses and developed a strong interest in foraging, natural remedies, and self-reliant living. A trained Forest Bathing guide and creative facilitator, Katie is deeply committed to helping others restore their equilibrium through time in nature.

    Her sessions are intuitive, grounding, and gently transformative—infused with laughter, warmth, and deep respect for the land. Katie also draws on her knowledge of nutrition, homeopathy, and essential oils to support holistic wellbeing and create balance in modern life. Clients appreciate her ability to hold calm, non-judgemental space and make nature connection accessible for all.

    ✨ Joanna Bristow-Watkins – Holistic Therapist & Spiritual Mentor

    Joanna is a passionate advocate for nature reconnection as a portal to inner peace and soul alignment. Raised with access to ancient Surrey woodlands, she brings a lifetime of personal connection to the natural world, complemented by over two decades of experience as a spiritual mentor and energy healing practitioner.

    Founder of Harmony Healing (est. 1999), Joanna developed the Reyad Sekh Em® Egyptian Alchemy Healing system, combining sacred breathwork, vibrational sound, angelic frequencies, and earth wisdom. She offers themed Forest Bathing sessions that integrate these teachings—blending scientific insight with ancient traditions to help others realign with their authentic selves.

    Known for her insightful guidance, intuitive depth, and gentle presence, Joanna holds a uniquely sacred container where participants feel seen, supported, and spiritually nourished.

    Julli Dunman✨ Julli Dunman – Forest Bathing Guide & Mindfulness Teacher

    Julli brings a wealth of heart-centred expertise from over 30 years in the travel industry, where she specialised in creating bespoke healing retreats and unforgettable experiences. A qualified mindfulness and meditation teacher, and a certified Forest Bathing guide with TFBI, she offers deeply grounding sessions that help people pause, reset, and rediscover joy in simplicity.

    Whether guiding private individuals or corporate groups, Julli fosters a calm and compassionate space where participants feel truly cared for. She encourages them to “dust off” life’s pressures and connect to the present moment—often sparking emotional release, deep insights, and a renewed sense of wellbeing.

    A lifelong lover of cultural diversity and human connection, Julli’s intuitive approach combines lived experience with soulful presence. She believes nature is the perfect mirror, helping us remember who we are when the world becomes too loud.

    🌍 Learn more about Julli’s work at www.mindfulnessinnature.co.uk


    🎧 Hear from Us

    🎙 Listen: Our Forest Bathing podcast interview with Brooklands Radio shares insights into the practice and its many benefits.

    🎥 Watch: Participant reflections and nature-based conversations are available on our Facebook video page.

    📬 Stay Connected: Receive our monthly seasonal summaries, including lunar cycles, Celtic festivals, and Harmony in Nature news, direct to your inbox.
    👉 Click here to join our mailing list


    🎥 Watch & Explore More

    🌲 Forest Bathing & Nature Connection Video
    Explore the diverse wellbeing benefits of Forest Bathing and hear about our experiences with green social prescribing and business events on Nadège’s YouTube Channel:


    🌐 The Silver Tent TV: Wood Wide Web Discussion
    The Silver Tent is a global online community for women aged 50+, encouraging deep sharing, connection and collaboration.
    If you meet the criteria, request to join via the Silver Tent Facebook Group Page. Joanna is a long-standing member and has shared insights into Forest Bathing, sacred nature, and spiritual mentoring within this inspiring sisterhood.
    Our YouTube discussion delves into the fascinating concept of the Wood Wide Web—how trees communicate underground, what science tells us, and how this inspires our Forest Bathing practice.

     


    🌟 Book Your Place

    🛒 Browse upcoming sessions in the Harmony Shop
    📩 Enquiries for private bookings:  

    We look forward to welcoming you beneath the trees 🌳✨

  • Our Main Site: Harry Edwards Foundation, Surrey Hills

    Step Into Serenity: A Guided Forest Bathing Experience
    🌿 Feel the gentle shift in the air as you wander through the trees.
    🍂 Observe the ever-changing tapestry of colours that each season brings.
    🌲 Breathe deeply and savour the rich, earthy aromas of the forest.
    This mindful, immersive experience is designed to relax, restore, and rejuvenate, leaving you with a profound sense of well-being.

    📢 Booking Within 48 Hours?
    Availability is not guaranteed. Please text 07930 414525 before booking. 

  • Sunday 25th September, National GetOutside Day in the UK and The Great Big Green Week until 2nd October

    25Sep National Get Outside Day an initiative by Ordnance SurveySunday 25th September is National GetOutside Day in the UK, an initiative by Ordnance Survey. 

    Embrace GetOutside Day by Savouring the Approach of Autumn
    Guest Blog by Katie Robinson, Co-Founder of Harmony in Nature

    Once the days start to feel cooler and shorter, it’s very tempting to stay inside with our heating, rather than add on extra layers and step outside; but it’s well worth the effort! If you can go out into a clean natural environment, that’s ideal, but observing plants in a pot, listening to the birds, watching the sun go down, feeling the breeze or sun are all ways to feel a sense of connection with nature, which soothes our mind and body.

    When we have the right clothing and footwear, usually plenty of layers, and a spare, we can happily stay outdoors for hours. Even longer if we take a hot drink and a snack! If you have the company of a young child, you may want to let them lead you, as they know what to do in nature, by following their instincts.

    Feeling the barkIf you want to amuse yourself, then here are some things that we at Harmony in Natureenjoy doing outside, as the cooler weather approaches. Take your time, and really notice the details with your senses. When we become completely present in the moment, rest, recovery and healing is triggered through a different branch of our autonomic nervous system operating than during our daily ‘doings’. Being outside, and especially in nature, has been shown to benefit our wellbeing, physically, mentally, emotionally, as well as spiritually, when we sense a connection to something greater outside ourselves. (The Rev Kate Botley described her session with Katie for The Forest Bathing Institute and filmed by the BBC as ‘a spiritual experience’.)

    • See what draws your attention when you step outside: is it the temperature, the light, colours, shapes/angles, movement? Follow one of these qualities for a few minutes, and see how you feel.
    • In a clean area in nature, appreciate the quality of the air, breathing slowly in and out through your nostrils (especially important in very cold weather, as the nose warms the air). Notice if the air seems the same temperature as it goes both in and out, or is it different?
    • Feel the air on your face, hands and skin - does it change if you turn, very slowly, in a full circle? Do you feel some breeze/warmth/cold/movement across your skin, or not?
    • What can you hear? If it’s a jarring sound, take a few slow breaths in and out, and listen even harder to find a natural sound - maybe birdsong, wind, water from a small fountain? Cup your hands round your ears and see if that makes the sound louder.
    • Take a tip from dogs, and smell as much as you can! As there is more moisture in the air, the smells get stronger, so make the most of this by looking for some areas where leaves have come down. Rubbing them between your fingers, and breaking fallen twigs or leaves increases the smell, as does ‘sniffing like a cat’, taking in several shorter sniffs before inhaling more deeply (but not so deeply that you get bits of leaf up your nostrils!) Do deeper layers smell different?
    • Leaves are fun for all the family! You can scuff them along to make a great swishing sound, or throw them, kick them or, if you find a nice layer in a safe place, even lie down and make ‘leaf angels’ with your arms, so you don’t have to wait for snow!
    • Have you walked on grass in your bare feet? Not only is the damp grass a lovely feeling, but being in contact ‘skin to skin’ with the ground has wonderful health benefits, too. It sends to the earth all the excess positively charged ions, which we are absorbing from all our tech and electronic equipment, and sends us back the negatively charged ions, which bring us more health. Some say we need at least 10 minutes of uninterrupted contact, but others feel it is instant. Certainly, we often feel tingling after a while, and sometimes feet even warm up! (You can always put something like a towel on the top of your feet, and that keeps them warmer, for a luxury version!) This is also known as ‘earthing’.

    The Great Big Green Week, Sept 24th-Oct 2nd

    Last year 5,000 sessions took place during the week, making it the UK’s biggest ever nature and climate event. Events take place outside around the country and online, so and you’ll find a wide variety of events to join in with. A flavour of events near us:

    • a recycling clothing event, to avoid the obscene amount of clothing which finds its way to landfill each year
    • an eco-fayre, with ways to rethink, re-use, re-purpose, repair, refill…
    • an introduction to mindfulness
    • a quiet track bike ride
    • a community feast with leftovers from food businesses to avoid waste
    • a bat walk

    …you get the picture.

    Let us know what you found.

    Whatever you do outside, ensure you have fun, and rediscover the pleasures of having the curiosity of a child again.

    forest bathingForest Bathing+ Sessions with Joanna & Katie
    We hold Harmony in Nature forest bathing sessions 

    See our recent September Update (October out soon) - for a round-up of our forthcming events. Book any of our sessions via Harmony Shop

    Within Surrey, via Harmony In Nature, we facilitate Nature Connection & Forest Bathing Sessions to help adults reconnect with nature and reap the therapeutic benefits. We work in Shere,Tadworth, London SW20 and Woking.

    Other services from Joanna and Katie
    Through Harmony Healing, Joanna runs a monthly Full Moon monthly Unity Consciousness Meditation [next one is Sunday 9th October 7.30-9.30pm (UK time), £20], a Lunar Cycle Alignment Programme [next one running 25th October - 23rd November £155] and other online esoteric/energy healing practitioner and self-empowerment courses

    Katie has five 1:1 places left this year for Nurtured by Nature, One-day Reset Retreats, which are individually tailored. Depending on what is most helpful for you, they may include a selection from nutrition, breathing, mindful movement, sounding or chanting, essential oils, ‘de-chemicalising’ your lifestyle, natural first aid, as well as reconnecting to ourselves and nature through sensory nature connection practices outdoors, ending, naturally, with a forest bathing session. Priced at £488 for the whole day. Message Katie on 07596 830910 for further information, and to discuss your ideal day!

    Blog updates
    To receive Forest Bathing updates ONLY, sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters on the above link, indicating receipt of the Forest Bathing mailings only.

    To receive all Blog updates (headed with a title detailing the occasion or event so that you can choose whether to open it or not), featuring New and Full Moon, meteor showers, eclipses and other meteorological events, interesting anniversaries, ancient festival dates plus notification of dates of numerological significance, sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters above or at the top of any page of this Harmony Healing website. The nature of the Blog means that whenever there are several key dates in close succession, there will be frequent mailings. The sender e-mail address is  (and the sender will show as Joanna Bristow-Watkins @ Harmony Healing). You may need to add this email to your safe list and check your junk filter initially.

  • Themed Full Day Workshops with afternoon Forest Bathing, £77 per person

    Themed Full Day Workshops with afternoon Forest Bathing, £77

    These sessions work well at Harry Edwards Healing Sanctuary, Shere, Surrey.

    Our other venues are available for private bookings and/or corporate sessions, and some are suitable for themed events as detailed below, please enquire for details. 

  • Training to be a Forest Bathing+ Guide - and be at one with nature, Guest Blog by Philippa Bassett

    Forest Bathing photo 2

    This year, Philippa Bassett trained to become a Forest Bathing+ Guide like Joanna. Her blog outlines the approach and appeal of Forest Bathing+ and her motivation for taking it up. Reproduced with her permission, here is her take on the delights of Shinrin-Yoku.

    This time last year, if you had asked me what my plans were for future courses, I’m pretty sure I wouldn’t have mentioned training to become a Forest Bathing+ Guide!

    However, after a year working with The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI), I have learned so much about the science behind the benefits of practising Shinrin-Yoku (the Japanese term) for Forest Bathing+, that I am now on my journey to becoming a fully-fledged TFBI Forest Bathing+ Guide myself!

    Forest Bathing+ is essentially spending time relaxing under the canopy of trees, the health giving benefits of which have been scientifically evidenced over the last 40 years, particularly in Japan. Here, forest bathing is regularly prescribed by their NHS system as a preventative healthcare measure for mental health and general physical well-being.

    Forest Bathing is also prevalent in South Korea, where overnight retreats and specific ‘trails of healing’ help stressed out executives’ re-charge from their daily life under the health-giving canopy of an accredited woodland environment.

    Forest Bathing Bluebell WoodsBut this is not new to me. At some level, I feel that I am returning to my roots with Forest Bathing+. Having grown up by the sea in a rural part of South Wales, I spent a lot of time in the woods at the back of my grandparents’ house, where we used to walk under the woodland canopy to the local beaches. Climbing and playing in trees formed a large part of my childhood, and this connection has been re-kindled by attending Forest Bathing+ events. The feeling of calmness and relaxation following several hours of mindfulness in the forest is a great benefit to one’s general health and well-being.

    The catalyst for deciding to become a Forest Bathing+ Guide was attending the Mindfulness and Meditation Training which took place in mid-March, just before the Covid 19 lockdown. Due to the self-isolation restrictions, the theory behind Forest Bathing+ was conducted online, which gave me more time to focus on the benefits. During the course, I was really surprised to learn so many interesting facts about the science of ancient forests, their chemical structure, the wood wide web and many more fascinating nuggets of information.

    I am very interested in natural healing and healthcare having worked in this area for over 6 years. Learning about the natural healing ability of the forests and woodland reinforced my passion and I now feel committed to attracting more people, of all ages, to experience the wonders of immersive nature therapy and spend quality, mindful time in the beautiful woodlands and ancient forests that are such an integral part of the UK’s natural landscape.

    I would thoroughly recommend the Forest Bathing training to anyone who also has a passion for nature, the environment and general health and well-being.

    Photo credits: Forest Bathing images showing a track through a Surrey woodland and bluebell woods, taken by Philippa Bassett.

    *************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

    As many of our Blog readers will know, Joanna Bristow-Watkins from Harmony Healing trained as a Forest Bathing+ Guide with TFBI in 2019. Joanna will be writing a future Blog about Forest Bathing, but when her colleague Philippa published this Blog, she sought permision to use it as her first Guest Blog.

    Forest Bathing Sessions bring harmony and balance into your life. Joanna and other qualified TFBI guides are now tentatively offering small group Forest Bathing+ Sessions at Newlands Corner (near Guildford) with additional social distancing and other protocols to minimise COVID risks. 

    Harmony Healing utilises the philosophies of the Ancient Egyptians to bring balance and harmony.  It was a key part of ancient Egyptian life to be connected with nature and all of the Deities represented manifestations of nature.  Even our own word 'nature' is likely to be derived from their word 'Neter' generally translated as God.

    A number of virtual courses are starting again this month, including Reyad Sekh Em (RSE) Egyptian Alchemy Healing Level 1, which is now fully available as interactive training modules, details on Harmony Healing Virtual Events. 

    Currently, due to Coronavirus, most events will be virtual hence distant readings and healings are proving popular. We don't recommend giving a reading or healing to another person, without first checking whether it would be welcomed.If you are looking for spiritually enlightening activities during lockdown, Joanna offers distant intuitive readings (past life and/or aura readings) and distant 1-2-1 healings and virtual healing circles. We also have meditations available.

    To receive regular Blog updates (headed with a title detailing the occasion or event so that you can choose whether to open it or not), featuring New and Full Moon, meteor showers, eclipses and other meteorological events, interesting anniversaries, ancient festival dates plus notification of dates of numerological significance, sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters above or at the top of any page of this Harmony Healing website. The nature of the Blog means that whenever there are several key dates in close succession, there will be frequent mailings. The sender e-mail address is (and the sender will show as Joanna Bristow-Watkins @ Harmony Healing). You may need to add this email to your safe list and check your junk filter initially.

  • Why Go Forest Bathing When I Already Go Out in Nature?

    WhatsApp Image 2021 07 24 at 10.41.45 7Guest Blog by Katie Robinson, Co-Founder of Harmony in Nature, September 2021

    ‘I walk my dog every day.’

    ‘I meet my friends weekly for a walk.’

    ‘I go for a run three times a week; does that count?’

    ‘I get great benefit from doing my 10,000 steps most days.’

    Of course we can continue these positive activities. And, we can enhance our experience when we add something new into our lifestyle.

    For example, if our usual supermarket doesn’t stock something new we want to try, do we not even look elsewhere? Of course not; we’ll find out where we can find it. Forest bathing is simply a different way to be out in nature and woodland, with different benefits from these other activities. It’s not an ‘either/or’ scenario.

    To answer the title question with another question: Where is your mind when you do these activities?

    Is it noticing the details of what is immediately around? Or the mind and body sensations? Personally, my mind would be clocking up the steps, or the landmarks indicating I’m half way, or wondering how far away until my stop at the coffee shop as a reward, or chatting with my friend, or checking the dog hasn’t disappeared. Dogs are very mindful, but owners checking on them cannot be. This is why our walks currently do not include children and dogs. This is total ‘me’ time.

    Our minds are wonderful things; always busy and looking for problems to solve to keep active. However, years of this often leads to it being stuck on ‘doing’ and ‘fixing’. With forest bathing, we can leave this behind for a while.

    I notice the texture of the many tree barks; I stop to smell the variety of new growth or layers of the soil, noticing how clean it smells and how uplifting that feels; or I allow my attention to be drawn to the many patterns in the tree canopy above. I can use my senses in a directed way that brings out the wonderment in nature I felt as a child; I breathe deeply and appreciate the power and healing we get from a high-oxygen environment; I notice the tiny things.

    Forest bathing adds another way to be in nature and has enhanced our lives immeasurably. Giving ourselves 2-3 hours to meander around in woodland is a great act of self care, and a common realisation by participants is that the permission to do this is so valuable.

    They realise how little we notice normally, and get great joy and excitement from re-discovering small elements they hadn’t paid attention to in a long time, if ever. Immersing ourselves in all the forest has to offer (hence the ‘bathing’) is eye opening for many. The sights, sounds, smells and feel of the forest, as we each experience it, brings us into the present moment, away from the upset of the past and worry about the future that hasn’t yet happened. We simply ‘are’ and the forest accompanies us, being its beautiful self, just waiting to be noticed, to calm and reset us, and never judging us for the failures we perceive in ourselves.

    WHAT MAY HAPPEN AS A RESULT OF FOREST BATHING?

    Forest bathing, and in particular Forest Bathing+, which we embrace at Harmony In Nature and through our training at The Forest Bathing Institute, could be considered an amalgam of nature therapy, mindfulness and meditation, as well as its own thing. As such, there are decades of scientific research into what happens when we experience nature, do things mindfully, breathe consciously or follow a guided meditation. The (mainly) Japanese research into forest bathing has shown that we may potentially experience any or several of the following:

    • reduced stress and cortisol levels
    • improved heart and circulatory system
    • improved digestive and respiratory issues
    • reduced anxiety, depression and rumination
    • improved decision-making, motivation, creativity
    • increase in sense of connection with nature, self and others
    • balanced blood sugar
    • boosted immune function through increased production of 'Natural Killer'-NK-cells and anti-cancer proteins, lasting 2-4 weeks

    Fundamentally, it brings our nervous system back into balance, which regulates our hormones and our nervous system, and resets our mind and body functions. Some participants express experiencing emotions they hadn’t allowed themselves to feel recently, and this felt safe, and it passed. Some say how energised they felt, others how sleepy.

    In its simplest form, forest bathing combines the physiological benefits of nature’s presence with the meditative aspects of closely observing without judgement. What we feel as a result is ultimately influenced by what we each need at that point- sleep, energy, creativity, a sense of peace, wonderment. Our minds and bodies will give us what we need, when we allow them space to do so. That’s why we go forest bathing.

    forest bathing Forest Bathing+ Sessions with Joanna & Katie

     See our current sessions listed and/or book atHarmony Healing Shop

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    Blog updates
    To receive Forest Bathing updates ONLY,  sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters on the above link and indicate receipt of the Forest Bathing mailings only.

    To receive all Blog updates (headed with a title detailing the occasion or event so that you can choose whether to open it or not), featuring New and Full Moon, meteor showers, eclipses and other meteorological events, interesting anniversaries, ancient festival dates plus notification of dates of numerological significance, sign up for the Harmony Healing e-newsletters above or at the top of any page of this Harmony Healing website. The nature of the Blog means that whenever there are several key dates in close succession, there will be frequent mailings. The sender e-mail address is  (and the sender will show as Joanna Bristow-Watkins @ Harmony Healing). You may need to add this email to your safe list and check your junk filter initially.

  • 🌿 Monday 11th - Sunday 17th May, Mental Health Awareness Week in the UK

    MHAW2026

    Theme: Take Action

    In a world where awareness is growing, this year’s message reminds us that awareness alone is not always enough. Sometimes the most powerful shifts happen when we take even the smallest action.

    Action might look like:

    💚 Reaching out to a friend
    💚 Asking for support when you need it
    💚 Stepping away from screens and into nature
    💚 Making time to rest, reflect, or simply breathe
    💚 Choosing practices that nourish mind, body, and spirit

    Every action counts. Small daily choices can create lasting changes in our mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing.

    And sometimes one of the most healing actions we can take... is reconnecting with nature.


    🍃 Nature Connection: A Natural Mood-Booster

    The word natural says it all – we are designed to be in relationship with the living world.

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally drained, try something simple:

    🌲 Take a mindful stroll through woodland
    🌼 Sit beneath a tree in your local park
    🌬️ Pause and breathe deeply in a green open space

    Scientific studies increasingly confirm what our ancestors instinctively understood—mindful time in nature can improve mood, reduce anxiety, support nervous system regulation, and promote overall wellbeing.


    🌳 What Is Forest Bathing?

    Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku) is the Japanese practice of immersing yourself in the woodland environment through slow, sensory awareness.

    It’s not about exercise or hiking.
    It’s about being, not doing.

    Benefits may include:

    ✨ Reduced stress and rumination
    ✨ Lower blood pressure and healthier blood sugar regulation
    ✨ Improved immune function
    ✨ Greater feelings of calm, connection, and emotional resilience

    Research led by the The Forest Bathing Institute continues to highlight measurable physical and emotional benefits from mindful nature immersion.


    💚 Take Action Through Healing & Connection

    Mental wellbeing doesn’t always come from doing more—sometimes it comes from finding the right people, the right space, and the right support.

    As part of Mental Health Awareness Week, Joanna is also opening the doors for a very special day of healing, learning, and meaningful connection.

    🔮 Harmony Healing Networking & Healing Day

    🗓️ Saturday 16th May 2026
    🕚 11am–7pm
    📍 Walton-on-Thames

    This nurturing day is designed for healers, students, and anyone drawn to holistic wellbeing.  Join for all, or part, of the day.

    Expect:

    ✨ Opportunities to give and receive healing
    ✨ Practitioner development and peer support
    ✨ Time to connect with like-minded souls
    ✨ A chance to deepen your confidence, skills, and spiritual awareness
    ✨ Gentle social time, shared learning, and nourishing conversation

    Whether you are an experienced practitioner or simply curious about holistic healing, this is a beautiful opportunity to step into a supportive community.

    Sometimes taking action begins by saying yes to connection.

    Book via the Harmony Shop.

    🌸 Join Us for Forest Bathing

    During Mental Health Awareness Week, why not take action for your wellbeing and join us in nature?

    🗓️ Sunday 17th May 2026 | 11am–2pm
    📍 Harry Edwards Foundation
    💷 £39.77 per person

    Expect peaceful woodland, sensory invitations, gentle mindfulness practices, and perhaps even the final whispers of the bluebells.

    Reconnect with the healing rhythm of the trees... and with yourself.

    Book via the Harmony Shop.

    🧘‍♂️ Also Supporting Local Wellbeing

    Mental wellbeing can be supported in many ways—through nature, community, movement, breath, stillness, and sound.

    As part of this month’s wellbeing focus, Joanna would also like to highlight a beautiful local offering from trusted friends in the wellness community:

    Yin Yoga & Gong Bath with Gary Evans – R & R Wellbeing

    🗓️ Wednesday 27th May 2026
    📍 Clandon Wood Nature Reserve (near Guildford)

    Unwind in the peaceful surroundings of nature with an evening of gentle Yin Yoga, followed by a deeply restorative Gong & Sound Bath featuring gong and singing bowls.

    🧘 Yin Yoga: 6:30–7:20pm
    🔔 Gong Bath: 7:30–8:30pm
    🍵 Includes herbal tea
    💷 From £25

    No previous experience is needed—simply come as you are. Open to all, with a warm and inclusive approach.

    A beautiful complement to this month’s themes of slowing down, reconnecting, and taking meaningful action for your wellbeing.
    Book via Eventbrite

    🌕 Tune Into the Moon

    Also coming up this month:

    Hawthorn Blue Micro Full Moon Meditation

    🗓️ Sunday 31st May 2026 | 7:30–9:30pm (UK time)
    💷 £20

    Joanna will guide you through a deeply restorative online group meditation featuring:

    💎 Etheric crystal healing
    🌈 Colour frequency work
    🌀 11-chakra balancing
    🌍 Unity consciousness healing

    A beautiful opportunity to restore inner balance and spiritual clarity.

    Book via the Harmony Shop.


    🧬 Deepen Your Healing Journey

    Through Harmony Healing, Joanna offers spiritual development and holistic training rooted in ancient wisdom, including:

    🔮 Reyad Sekh Em® Level 1 (RSE 1)
    A four-module certified programme including:

    ✨ Khemitology
    🔥 Violet Flame of Amenti
    🌀 Chakra Alignment
    👼 Essene Angelology

    💷 £333 full programme
    (Individual modules £88–£111)

    All sessions are recorded, so you can begin whenever the timing feels right.
    More details at the Harmony Shop.


    🎁 Other Offerings

    ✨ Forest Bathing experiences
    ✨ MP3 guided meditations
    ✨ Distant healing & intuitive readings
    ✨ Gift vouchers for loved ones

    Because sometimes the most meaningful gift... is peace.


    📬 Stay in the Celestial Loop

    Receive Joanna’s free monthly Celestial Forecast, including:

    🌑 New & Full Moon insights
    🌠 Meteor showers & eclipses
    📅 Ancient festivals & sacred dates

    Simply subscribe via Harmony Healing and add to your safe sender list.


    💚 This Mental Health Awareness Week...

    Take one small action.

    Walk among trees.
    Reach out to someone.
    Sit in stillness.
    Join a healing circle.
    Breathe a little deeper.

    Because healing rarely happens all at once—
    it happens one conscious step at a time.

  • 🌳 Private Sessions at Cannon Hill Common, SW20

    🌳 Private Forest Bathing+ at Cannon Hill Common, SW20

    2½-hour private session – £376 (for up to 10 participants)

    If public sessions are not currently scheduled, we welcome private group bookings at this tranquil woodland venue—ideal for friends, families, social groups, themed celebrations or tailored corporate wellbeing events.

    📅 Please give at least one month’s notice to secure your preferred date.
    🕰 Preferred timings: 11am–1.30pm or 12–2.30pm, though alternative slots may be arranged.

    Located between Wimbledon Chase, Raynes Park and Morden, Cannon Hill Common (SW20 9DB) offers a hidden green sanctuary in South West London. Launched as one of our Forest Bathing+ venues in August 2021, this location is easily reached by public transport and offers a peaceful yet accessible escape into nature.

    📨 Contact us to discuss your ideal session and how we can personalise it to meet your group’s needs.

  • 🌲 Private Sessions at Horsell Common, Woking, Surrey

    🌲 Private Forest Bathing+ at Horsell Common, Surrey

    2½-hour private session – £376 (for up to 10 participants)

    We offer private Forest Bathing+ experiences at beautiful Horsell Common, near Woking in Surrey. This ancient heath and woodland landscape is perfect for small groups seeking calm, clarity and reconnection in nature.

    Whether you're organising a wellbeing experience for friends, a team-building event, or a special celebration, we can tailor the session to suit your needs.

    📅 Advance booking of at least one month is recommended.
    🕰 Preferred timings: 11am–1.30pm or 12–2.30pm (other options may be available upon request).

    Nestled close to Woking town centre yet surrounded by peaceful heathland and mature woodland, Horsell Common offers the ideal blend of accessibility and seclusion for a deeply restorative session.

    📨 Contact us to arrange a bespoke experience for your group or to explore possible dates.

  • 🌿 Private Sessions at Sheen Common, London, SW14

    🌿 Private Forest Bathing at East Sheen Common, London

     2½-hour sessions for up to 5 participants — £188

    Although we are not currently running public sessions at this venue, we do welcome private group bookings for up to five people. Perfect for friends, families, or small teams seeking reconnection with nature in a tranquil woodland setting.

    📅 Advance notice of at least one month is required.
    🕰 Preferred timings: 11am–1.30pm or 12–2.30pm (other times may be available on request).

    Our sessions take place at East Sheen Common, SW14 7EL, a leafy green space adjacent to Richmond Park in South West London. The site is well-served by public transport and offers a peaceful pocket of nature within the city.

    📨 To enquire about availability, please get in touch and let us know your preferred date and group size.