Exploring Forest Bathing with Annie

Host Sarah Gorev is joined by photographer and nature lover Annie Johnston for a genuinely joyful chat about forest bathing - and fair warning, neither of them are experts. This is two people who love being outside talking about why it makes them feel so much better. And somehow they cover a lot of ground. In this episode you'll hear about: Why our connection to nature is primeval - and what the digital age has quietly done to it The Japanese practice of shinrin-yoku, why it was coined in the 1980s, and why it can be a lovely walk in the woods Grounding - what it actually is, why Annie had been doing it her whole life before she found out it had a name, and why pigeon poo may occasionally be an obstacleThe fascinating science of phytoncides - the chemicals trees release that can actually boost your immune system Why trees communicate with and look after each other through their root systems (it sounds unlikely; it isn't) How going outside for just ten minutes works as a change of state for your nervous system in a way even a cup of tea can't quite match Forest schools, children seeing woods through fresh eyes, and what Sir David Attenborough has to do with any of it The women's business walking group where nobody talked about business once - and why that was the whole point Plus a plant in the wrong place, some owl pellets, and a very good case for borrowing a dog! Whether you've got a forest on your doorstep, a balcony with a tomato plant, or just a park bench at lunchtime - this one's for you. Links mentioned in the episode:Website – http://www.anniejohnstonphoto.comBusiness Facebook – www.facebook.com/anniejohnstonphotographyLinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniejohnstonInstagram – www.instagram.com/anniejohnstonphotography📖 The Healing Power of Trees by Olga Terebenina and Gary Evans - Forest Bathing Institute - https://tfb.institute/National Trust - https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/discover/nature/trees-plants/a-beginners-guide-to-forest-bathing Curious about EFT tapping? If you've been feeling stressed, overwhelmed, or just not quite yourself lately, it could be just the thing. Host Sarah Gorev offers EFT and energy sessions via Zoom, plus virtual EFT tapping card decks if you'd like to explore at your own pace - find everything at tapintoyou.co.uk. Come and say hello on Instagram too @sarahgorevThis podcast is here to inform and inspire curiosity, not to tell you what to do. Everything discussed reflects the personal experiences of our guests, and Sarah doesn't personally endorse any particular practice or approach. You're always in the driving seat — it's entirely your choice whether to explore further. Where guests offer the chance to try things for yourself, you'll find links below. And as always, nothing here is suggested as a substitute for personalised advice from your own healthcare professionals.Thanks for listening.