Julia Green, Sales & Commercial Manager at Center Parcs Conferences & Events welcomes the first signs of spring, inspiring her to step outside, breathe deeply, and recalibrate after the winter. This wellness column by Julia was first published in the PA Life spring 2026 issue.
For all of us with busy lives, carving out intentional time outdoors isn’t just a pleasant bonus – it’s a powerful wellbeing practice rooted in science and centuries-old wisdom. One such practice, shinrin-yoku, or forest bathing, emerged in Japan in the 1980s and has since become a globally respected way to restore balance through mindful nature immersion.
At its core, shinrin-yoku is about gentle, sensory engagement with the natural world — moving slowly, noticing textures, colours, sounds and scents, and allowing your attention to rest on what’s around you rather than racing thoughts. In Japan, this practice has been embraced both culturally and medically, with millions taking to forests as a healthy daily habit.
Scientific research backs up what many of us intuitively know: being outdoors supports physical and mental wellbeing. Time among trees can significantly reduce stress hormones like cortisol, lower blood pressure and heart rate, and even boost immune function through compounds released by plants. Just 20 to 30 minutes outdoors – especially in green spaces – can sharpen focus, enhance creativity, improve mood and reset busy minds.
What can an outdoors wellness routine like in everyday life?
You don’t need a remote forest to benefit. A simple routine might be a mindful stroll during a lunch break, a few quiet minutes beneath a tree at the start or end of your day, or planning weekend outings that encourage you to slow down. The key is consistency and intention: treat these mini-breaks as appointments with your wellbeing rather than optional extras.
Studies also show that even views of greenery from a window can reduce stress and improve performance. Why not take a moment to notice what you can see from your workspace. In corporate settings, time outdoors – whether a pause between meetings or a short walk along a woodland path – supports better memory, focus and creative thinking.
This philosophy underpins places like Center Parcs Conferences & Events, where lakes, woodland and traffic-free trails naturally encourage attendees to step away from screens and into the forest air. Walks between sessions to quiet moments under new spring leaves or shared outdoor activities ground people in the present moment.
In a culture that often equates productivity with “busy” worn like a badge of honour – making space for stillness in nature offers a refreshing counterbalance. By bringing the principles of shinrin-yoku into daily life, even in small doses, we can nurture resilience, wellbeing and focus, tuning into the season and the world around us as spring unfolds.
Looking for a venue with wellness resources?
If you are looking to enquire for any wellness resources or venues upcoming events , check out: events.centerparcs.co.uk
For more of PA Life’s recommended suppliers and wellness resources, check this out here.
