Outdoors and nature
Forest bathing
Slow down among the trees and take it all in.
- Very lightintensity
- ~140kcal per hour
- Freebudget
- Lowimpact
Is forest bathing right for you?
Slow down among the trees and take it all in. It is a very light-intensity, low impact activity that you can do outdoors, on your own. Expect to burn around 140 calories an hour, based on a 70 kg person.
Anyone can start. You can do it without spending anything.
Why try forest bathing
- Clears your head. It is a reliable way to lower stress and lift your mood.
- Kind to joints. Low impact makes it a good choice if running or jumping is uncomfortable.
How to start forest bathing
Go to a wood, put your phone away and wander slowly for 30 minutes.
You do not need any kit, so you can start today.
Keep the first few sessions short and easy, and aim for two or three a week.
Warm up for five minutes first, build up gradually and stop if anything hurts.
A 4-week starter plan
| Week | Sessions | Minutes each | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3 | 20 | Learn the basics and keep every session easy. |
| 2 | 3 | 25 | Repeat last week and add a little time. |
| 3 | 4 | 30 | Add a session or make one a bit harder. |
| 4 | 4 | 35 | Your longest week. Book or plan what comes next. |
This is general guidance, not medical advice. If you have a health condition or injury, check with your GP before you start.
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Not sure forest bathing is for you?
Take the two-minute quiz and we will match you with activities that fit your goals, mood, budget and fitness.