The term ‘Shinrin-yoku‘ in Japanese culture means ‘a recreational trip to the forest for relaxation and well-being‘. It has become popular in Japanese medicine as a cornerstone of preventative health care and healing. The thinking behind it is to relax and take in the nature that is around us and is a concept of self-care, connecting physical, mental and social well-being. The benefits can include reduced blood pressure, reduced stress, improvement in mood, better ability to focus, higher energy levels, boosted immune system and improved sleep. Shinrin-yoku is a combination of mindfulness meditation practices and deep nature connection.

Because Woking and its surrounding area has some lovely natural landscapes you could easily give Shinrin-yoku a go and see how you get on. The point of the technique is not to walk a long distance or spend all day outside, it is to engage your senses, sight, smell, hearing and touch, take a break from the norm and observe your surrounds. Why not try it by walking slowly along the Basingstoke Canal, breathe slowly, take in your surroundings and open your senses.