Forest Bathing on the Tyne Derwent Way

What happens when you go forest bathing? Theresa, from the National Trust, went along to a recent session, and here's how she got on.

I was lucky enough to join a forest bathing session, in Gateshead Riverside Park, organised by Stomping Grounds NE: a charity that seeks to give children and families from all backgrounds the time and space to connect with nature and each other.

It was incredible to meet not only the founder of Stomping Grounds, Sophie Watkinson, but also a diversity of people from the local community; from business community engagement representatives, Teams residents, local entrepreneurs, Gateshead College teachers and Comfrey Project volunteers, we all benefited from connecting, reflecting and enjoying what nature had to offer (including the nettle tea)!

What was most powerful for me was reflecting on the values of Stomping Grounds: in its simplest form, it is behaving in a way that positively impacts on yourself, others and nature. We were asked to reflect on what the Gateshead Riverside Park and the Forest School site meant to us: for me, it was a place of opportunity and potential - a place where young people can engage with nature in a non-judgemental environment (as we were told, nature can challenge us, but it never judges). It's also a place where opportunities can be created through developing resilience, and green and leadership skills for the future.

My key 'takeaway' from the session was 'interconnectivity': how our actions impact the now and the future - we need to make our actions for the good of all.

Many thanks to Sam Tranter, Gateshead Riverside Project Manager, for organising such an amazing time to connect, reflect and enjoy the Gateshead Riverside Forest School!

Future blossom bathing events

The next blossom bathing event will take place on Tuesday 29 May. 

Find out more and book.