A new Forest Bathing business called Hawk and Heath is encouraging people to connect with their local green spaces and take responsibility for protecting them. The business is based at Curly Hill Scout camp in Ilkley, West Yorkshire, surrounded by ancient woodland, making it an ideal location to set up Forest Bathing activities.
The Forest Bathing experience builds resilience in mental and physical health and allows individuals to form an emotional connection to the green spaces around them. Hawk and Heath recommend returning to the same green spaces to form a deeper connection and place greater value on the green spaces around us.
Hawk and Heath believe that the loss of flora and fauna in the UK’s countryside and green spaces is a significant problem. According to the company, the country is one of the most nature-depleted in the world. The business aims to build connections with local green spaces, encourage families and communities to do the same and advocate for small acts that can help protect and improve the environment.
Hawk and Heath have found that young people who participate in Forest School and the Scouts understand the benefits of nature for their mental and physical wellbeing. The business encourages adults to make a similar connection with nature and take responsibility for protecting their local environment.
Hawk and Heath also support the local Scout association by asking clients to make small donations to allow them to continue their valuable charitable work in the community.
“We will enjoy watching the orca whales and puffins on David Attenborough’s new series, but we get as much joy from observing the robin, spiders’ webs, the woodlouse, and the trees in my local woodland,” said Hawk and Heath founder, Robert Fisher.
“We should enjoy what is nearby and not feel we need to venture far to see the beauty of nature, it is all around us and is asking for our help.”
To learn how to connect with green spaces and protect them, individuals and businesses can contact Hawk and Heath or join online and become a member.
