Worry less, walk more

Forest Bathing

No swimming costumes required

A Forest Bath or Shinrin-Yoku, as it is known to the Japanese, is basically a lovely walk in the woods but did you know that walking in your nearby woodland or forest can have actual medical benefits?

Studies have shown that mindful walking in the woods can reduce blood pressure, lower cortisol levels and improve concentration and memory. A chemical released by trees and plants, called phytoncides, can boost the immune system.

No WIFI in the forest? Ideal.

The best way to reap the benefits is to leave all your devices at home, get out in the woods and bathe in the natural environment. Listen to the birds, smell the verdant green leaves, look at the dappled sunlight…. or more likely in the UK listen to the howling wind in the trees and feel the raindrops on your face. The woods change every single day and if you are lucky, you might even see some wildlife.

Worry Less, Walk More

Hampshire based business Worry Less Design has an ethos that boldly promotes Mental Health and the benefits of exercise, it is even in the name of the business to “Worry Less”.

Founders, Christie and Caroline, believe that fresh air in your lungs and walking boots on your feet serves as the perfect medicine for the soul. Although life is always at 100 miles per hour, a walk in the forest remains to be one of the best activities for appreciating the daily journey. Christie says, “We walk every day - first it was a way of getting out of the house when we had tiny humans, then it was because we both got dogs (like tiny humans but significantly less chatty) and it was a break from the day to day running of our business. Then lockdown happened, and walking was our (and everyone else’s) main source of entertainment.”

These Gifts Are Made for Walking

The ultimate gifts for those who love to forest bathe their day away. Worry Less Design create gifts for sporty people, with a wide range of funny and stylish products for Runners, Cyclists, Triathletes and all kinds of sports. With so much inspiration from the last year of walking, they are proud to share the newest collection “These Gifts Are Made for Walking”. The following will be featured:

• Scrumptious smelling candles that will remind you of your walks in nature.

• Mugs to share a brew with your favourite walking companions.

• Magnets that will serve as a reminder to get out and hike up some hills.

• Framed unique, thoughtful, and funny prints that will sit pride of place in a walker’s home.

Check out the full collection at www.worrylessdesign.com