A forest bathing event is taking place in Furry Glen in Dublin's Phoenix Park on Friday, August 4 to help people connect with nature and reap its "healing" benefits.
Organised by Aurora Procopio, the event sees her bring guests on a relaxing forest walk and inviting them to fully immerse themselves in nature. The forest bathing lasts between two and a half to three hours and begins with Aurora introducing herself and explaining the practice's "endless" benefits.
She then kicks off a meditation to open up the senses to nature, during which many people decide to go barefoot. There is then the walk as well as a tea ceremony.
Read more: Irish start-up fights period poverty with organic pads and tampons
Speaking to Dublin Live, Aurora explained why people choose to take part in forest bathing and what benefits they get from it.
She said: "The Japanese name for the practice translates to "Immersing yourself in the atmosphere of the forest. There is walking but it's not like a hike. You don't need to have a specific level of fitness for it.
"When you're in nature, you're not in your head. Our attention is outwards with the sounds and the colours. It helps to reduce anxiety, stress and depression. It is said to boost the immune system as well because of the what we breathe when we're close to certain trees."
Towards the end of the event, Aurora invites attendees to rest, write, sketch or do what feels write in the moment.
"At the end of the session, I invite people to share. I sometimes get people to talk about emotions but not always," she said. "There are opportunities for poems as well."
"During the tea gathering, I normally offer chocolate and grapes. And we finish with a meditation to honour the benefits of the practice. It encourages people to connect with themselves and nature, and really slow down."
Tickets for Aurora's forest bathing event are on sale through Eventbrite for €20. The event starts at 5pm and will finish at around 7.30pm. Ticket holders are asked to bring a yoga mat, journal, pen and some water.
Aurora is also available to book for private events and experiences through her website.
READ NEXT:
'I tried kin tape for my neck and shoulder tension - and it worked wonders'
The LGBTQ+ hiking group that has offered an alternative to clubbing since 1989
Dublin woman's incredible transformation after overcoming food addiction
Dublin chair exercise classes ideal for people with mobility issues
Tallaght woman inspiring thousands after incredible 12 stone weight loss
To get the latest breaking news straight to your inbox, sign up for our free newsletter
