The Forest Bathing Therapy at SPA VILNIUS Anykščiai is a mindful nature practice that invites you to reconnect with yourself and the natural world through all five senses. Inspired by the internationally recognised Shinrin-yoku method developed and popularised by Japanese researcher Professor Qing Li, this experience is based on the simple yet powerful act of being fully present in the forest. Rather than focusing on distance or destination, the emphasis is on slowing down, calming the mind and allowing nature to positively influence both body and emotions.
Accompanied by a trained therapist, you will follow an approximately 1 km forest trail leading towards the Šventoji River, pausing along the way to experience the forest through sight, hearing, smell, touch and taste. Carefully guided mindfulness exercises help awaken the senses, reduce inner tension and deepen your connection with nature while encouraging the body’s natural ability to relax.
Benefits of the Experience
- Helps reduce tension, anxiety and feelings of fatigue.
- Promotes deep relaxation and emotional balance.
- Supports the body’s natural immune system.
- Helps maintain healthy blood pressure.
- Supports healthy respiratory function.
- Promotes better sleep quality and a more positive mood.
- Leaves you feeling more energised and mentally refreshed.
- Helps restore a meaningful connection with nature and yourself.
Experience
- Introduction to the therapy and the principles of mindful presence in nature.
- A guided walk of approximately 1 km through the forest towards the Šventoji River.
- Mindfulness exercises engaging all five senses:
- Sight – observing the forest both up close and in the distance.
- Hearing – listening to the sounds and natural rhythm of the forest.
- Smell – exploring the aromas of moss, trees, pine needles and forest soil.
- Touch – experiencing the textures of tree bark, moss, leaves, dew and earth.
- Taste – sampling edible forest plants and enjoying herbal tea.
- A mindful pause by the Šventoji River to observe the flowing water.
- On the return walk, your therapist introduces the Anykščiai mineral water spring and its unique properties.
- Guests are invited to join a sharing circle to reflect on their experience and emotions.
- The session concludes with personalised recommendations on how to prolong the benefits of the therapy.
Recommendation:
- Choose clothing and footwear suitable for the weather conditions.
- Bring appropriate protection from the sun, rain, mosquitoes or ticks.
- Bring a small mat for sitting or lying down.
- Switch your mobile devices to silent mode so you can stay fully focused on the experience.
