CANCELLED / Forest Bathing with Maarya Sharif

PLEASE NOTE: CHANGE OF DATE

The date of this event has changed to Dec 19. The times will remain the same - if you have booked, you will receive an email confirming the change.

To accompany the exhibition The Word for the World is Forest, Maarya Sharif will lead us in a session of forest bathing at Pollok Park that focuses on our experience, encounters and connections to the natural landscape.

Forest bathing is a wellness practice which involves immersing your senses in the forest atmosphere. Participants will be guided through activities (including walks) designed to encourage mindful connection with nature with plentiful opportunities for reflection.

Some benefits of regular forest bathing include:

- lowered blood pressure

- reduced stress

- improved energy levels

- a boosted immune system

Important Information

- Participants must be aged 16 years and over.

- Guiding will be carried out in English.

- A reasonable level of fitness and mobility is required to be able to participate in the session.

‐ Due to the uneven terrain we regret that the session is NOT SUITABLE for wheelchair users or those who have difficulty walking long stretches.

- Participants will be provided a checklist closer to the session date.

- There is NO swimming involved!

About Maarya Sharif

Maarya is an educator based in Edinburgh. In 2016, she underwent training from Scottish Forestry (formerly Forestry Commission Scotland) to lead groups in woodland settings. This grew her love of the outdoors tremendously.

As a medium, nature is often a key feature in her freelance work in which she encourages participants to unearth their creativity using natural materials as much as possible. Maarya has benefitted hugely from interacting and engaging with nature on both a creative and spiritual dimension. Noticing first hand the positive effects upon her mental wellbeing she decided to train as a Forest Bathing Guide.

Maarya continues to discover nature in her surroundings of the Pentland Hills.