Nature’s Therapy: Why Woodland Walks Are Good for Your Wellbeing

We all know the feeling: life gets busy, screens take over, and you realise you haven’t had a proper breath of fresh air in days. When the world feels overwhelming, there’s nothing quite like stepping outdoors and enjoying the benefits of nature’s therapy.

It’s no secret that spending time in nature is good for you, and now more than ever it’s vital for our overall wellbeing. We live in a fast-paced world, a 24-hour blur of work and responsibilities that takes its toll on our mental health. Spending time in nature is the perfect antidote; supporting mindfulness, reducing stress, and boosting overall health. 

While any time spent outdoors is beneficial, walking – one of the simplest and most accessible activities – is hard to beat. And the best place to go for a restorative walk? Into the woods.

Why Woodland Walks Are Good for Your Wellbeing

It turns out, woodlands aren’t just beautiful – they’re incredibly beneficial to our mental health and wellbeing. Whether you’re wandering through the Celtic rainforests of Eryri, finding peace in Anglesey’s Newborough Forest, or exploring the grounds of Glynllifon, woodland walks are a form of natural therapy. 

The Japanese have long understood the benefits of shinrin-yoku, or ‘forest bathing’, the mindful practice of immersing yourself in a woodland environment. It involves slow, mindful walks, using all the senses to observe and connect with the world in an intentional way. 

Woodlands are a natural sanctuary, a complete contrast to the overstimulation of urban environments. Unlike busy city streets, forests are alive with gentle, natural rhythms – birdsong, rustling leaves, trickling water – that calm our nervous system. 

If mindfulness is all about being present, then woodland walks make that effortless. They encourage us to walk a little more slowly, breathe a little more deeply, and see things a little more clearly. To notice the crunch of leaves underfoot, the feel of the breeze on our skin, the smell of the earth and the dappled light through the trees. Psychologists call it ‘attention restoration theory’; simply put, natural settings help the mind recover from fatigue and the constant demands of daily life. 

The Science Behind the Magic

Studies show that forest bathing has numerous benefits, calming the mind and nervous system, reducing blood pressure, boosting mood and even improving memory and concentration.

But why? 

Here’s the science. When we spend time outdoors, serotonin levels rise, reducing anxiety and improving sleep; endorphins are released, lowering stress and lifting our mood, and dopamine levels increase, boosting our memory and brain power. Even the love hormone oxytocin gets a boost, especially when we spend time in nature with others. 

With all these feel-good hormones flowing, it’s no wonder woodland walks are so good for our wellbeing. Added to that, time in nature shifts our perception, and gives a sense of being connected to something larger than ourselves. The result? We feel happier, more relaxed, and more alive. 

Where to Wander in North Wales & Beyond

Wales is blessed with some truly beautiful natural landscapes – and its woodlands are among the most restorative. While each forest or woodland has its own charm, all share the same gift- space to pause, breathe, and find calm among the trees.

Here are a few stand-out spots to explore:

Gwydir Forest Park, Betws-y-Coed – Tranquil lakes and tall pines create a calm, reflective setting. Trails loop past still waters and through peaceful woodland, giving you plenty of opportunities to pause, listen, and just be.

Abergwynant Woods, Dolgellau – This 90-acre woodland between Dolgellau and Barmouth is a quiet, reflective place, the perfect setting for a mindful stroll. 

Coed y Brenin Forest Park, Dolgellau – Famous for mountain biking, but just as rewarding on foot, Coed y Brenin is criss-crossed with walking trails.  A quiet wander here will leave you refreshed and recharged.

Newborough Forest, Anglesey – A unique mix of pine woodland, sea air, and sandy trails, this enchanting woodland is home to our native red squirrels.

Hafod Estate, Ceredigion – A historic estate turned natural sanctuary. Its winding woodland trails, bridges, and waterfalls offer perfect moments for stillness and reflection.

Tips for a Mindful Woodland Experience

To get the most from your woodland wander, go tech-free – pop your phone on silent, or better yet, leave it behind. Remember to slow down and take time to notice the details. For an added dose of mindfulness, try journaling – bring a notebook and jot down thoughts or sketches inspired by the surroundings.

Embrace every season. Bluebells and primroses bring vibrant splashes of colour in spring; summer brings beautiful, dappled light, autumn crisp and colourful leaves, and winter a special kind of stillness. Each season is captivating in its own way.

In a world that often feels relentless, woodlands allow us space to breathe, and bring a sense of calm that lingers long after we’ve stepped back into daily life. So next time life feels heavy, head for woods and let nature work its quiet magic. It really is the best medicine.

Did you know that waterfalls also have a positive effect on your wellbeing? The gentle rhythm of rushing water soothes the soul, easing stress and restoring calm. Discover 5 Waterfalls You Need to Visit in North Wales and experience another side of nature’s therapy.