About the event

Boundary Brook Nature Reserve is a great community nature reserve in the heart of East Oxford. The Reserve was created in 1990 when a group of community wildlife enthusiasts formed Oxford Urban Wildlife Group (OUWG), and rescued a plot of disused allotments to carve out a tranquil wild space.

Featuring mixed woodland, meadow, a nature pond and butterfly glade, Boundary Brook offers a unique diversity of habitats that are home to a rich variety of wildlife from birds and butterflies to frogs and foxes. It is an inspiring example of community led nature protection and restoration.

OUWG offer 'Nature bathing' sessions to encourage visitors to relax in nature for an hour. Helen and Genista will lead the session as we bathe all our senses of sight, hearing, smell, taste, and touch in the beautiful oasis of nature. Helen Edwards is a community artist and Chair of Oxford Urban Wildlife Group. Genista Astell is an university Alumni Engagement Officer.

Forest Bathing was developed in Japan in the 1980’s by a medical doctor as an evidence-backed practice to manage stress. It is now practiced worldwide and is being introduced in the UK through the NHS Green Prescribing Programme, with Surrey the first county to offer it.

Participants are invited to try various nature-based mindfulness activities designed to help relaxation and boost mental health. Participants leave the session with tips and ideas to practice on their own. No prior experience or fitness is necessary.

Scientific studies have found that forest bathing can:

• Reduce stress
• Provide support for anxiety and depression
• Boost relaxation
• Aid in lowering blood pressure
• Strengthen your connection to nature.

As well as many other evidenced health benefits.

We hope that you can join us for this event to experience nature bathing and to be inspired by this community nature reserve.