Forest Bathing Cape Town

“And into the forest, I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.” – John Muir

We invite you to join us on a unique regenerative journey through nature, leaving behind the chaos of daily life to immerse yourself in the tranquility and healing energy of a nearby Cape Peninsula forest. Forest Bathing (or Shinrin-Yoku in Japanese) is the age-old practice of being quiet and still in a forest, to allow the energy of nature to calm your mind and feed your soul. Medically recognised in Japan, it is prescribed for patients suffering from high levels of stress and anxiety.

‘We’ are Evelyn John, a highly experienced hiker, and Hilary, skilled yoga teacher and mindfulness guide. After years of hiking and a passion for the healing powers of nature, we have joined forces to offer Forest Bathing experiences in Cape Town.

In these particularly turbulent times, our stress levels have been dramatically increased by trauma, frustration and often immense loneliness. We offer guests the opportunity to pause, in a physically and mentally safe space, and experience an enriching journey immersed in tranquility.

Backed by science

Forest Bathing, also called forest therapy, is the conscious and contemplative practice of being immersed in the sights, sounds and natural, earthy fragrances of a forest. Recent scientific research in Japan has found evidence suggesting that terpenes (the molecules responsible for the unique aromas of trees – their essential oils) have a proven, direct and measurable effect on the body. They can enhance ‘natural killer cells’ and boost the immune system.

Listen to a podcast on the benefits of forest bathing.

What the experience involves

In Cape Town, our Forest Bathing guests are taken along recognised and safe paths and trails into Cape Peninsula forests. They are guided to relax, awaken their senses, take part in a guided meditation, led by Hilary, and still their minds to be ‘present’ in the forest to get the full benefit of the experience.

During the experience, we discuss the healing power of nature and explore the ‘Wood Wide Web’ of forests, mycelium and mushrooms. Participants are then invited to find a quiet place close by to be alone and absorb the healing energy of the environment. The experience ends with a brief yoga practice guided by Hilary, followed by honey and ginger tea, and the stroll back ‘home’.

The group size is kept to a maximum of ten. Each experience is between four and six hours, including the walk into and back out of the forest.

Read more about the Wood Wide Web.

Who would benefit?

Anyone. Everyone. Modern life is a myriad of stresses that take a heavy toll on physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. They create toxins and cause illness. Work, business, parenting, financial, relationship, noise, time-starvation and obligations pressures affect us all. As does battling the trauma, frustration and often loneliness of the current turbulent times. Forest Bathing is a remarkably calming and grounding practice whose benefits stretch way beyond the session itself.

It is open to anyone older than 15. No particular fitness level is required – you just need to be able to walk short distances (3–5 kms) to get from the car park to the forest venues and back.

Listen to a podcast of our interview with Pippa Hudson on CapeTalk.

Your Forest Bathing guides

Evelyn John Holtzhausen is a highly experienced hiker with more than 50 years of hiking experience in South Africa and internationally. A former journalist and public relations practitioner, Evelyn has practised yoga, pilates and meditation for many years. He has wide knowledge of Forest Bathing therapies and the benefits that being immersed in nature offer. “It gives us the opportunity to be still in today’s frenetic world, and enjoy a sense of wellbeing.”

Hilary Harker has been a Yoga teacher for 15 years. She is passionate about integrating yoga and mindfulness into daily life. Hilary’s career as a professional nurse centred round research, with a special interest in holistic wellness. “I believe that by regularly being out in nature and especially forests, we can experience the healing effects of Shinrin-Yoku physically, spiritually and emotionally.”

Watch us on MyTrees.