A captivating new woodland experience arrives near Omagh

A CAPTIVATING and fascinating new experience awaits on our doorstep as OM Dark Sky Park, located in Davagh Forest near Omagh, prepares to open new doors for exploration and sensory discovery with the introduction of Shinrin Yoku, the Japanese practice widely known as Forest Bathing.

The immersive woodland event will take place on Saturday, December 20, from 11am to 1pm, offering participants a rare opportunity to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the forest in a profoundly mindful way.

Shinrin Yoku emerged in Japan, where extensive research has highlighted its positive impacts on physical and mental health. Research findings - now also endorsed by the NHS Health Research Authority - show that mindful time spent in woodlands can boost the immune system and significantly improve emotional wellbeing.

Forest Therapy guide Tony Bailie, one of the few qualified practitioners on the island of Ireland, will lead the session. Explaining the science behind the practice, he said:

“Trees produce organic compounds that can help boost the human immune system and improve our moods. And by focusing on the senses in a mindful way participants are also able to reconnect with nature at a very deep and powerful level.”

A typical two-hour session includes a series of sensory-based meditations involving sound, smell, sight, touch and even taste, helping participants immerse themselves fully in the environment.

Tony, trained with a UK Complementary Medical Association-registered college, also emphasised that while Shinrin Yoku was born in Japan, its essence resonates deeply with Irish heritage:

“The Winter Solstice, which falls on the three shortest days of the year, was one of the most important dates in the Celtic calendar when, in a physical and symbolic level, we, along with nature, move from a time of darkness back into light.”

The session is being held as part of OM Dark Sky Park’s celebration of the winter solstice - known in ancient Irish tradition as ‘Grianstad an Gheimhridh’, meaning the sun stands still.

OM Dark Sky Park’s duty manager Roisín Doyle described Davagh Forest as the perfect setting.

“Davagh Forest offers a truly magical retreat from the busyness of modern living.

There’s no better place to unwind and reconnect with nature than at our relaxing Forest Bathing workshop, under the expertise of Tony.”

Situated at 155 Davagh Road, Omagh, BT79 8JQ, and signposted off the A505 Cookstown - Omagh Road, the venue is easily accessible for those eager to discover this atmospheric woodland sanctuary.

With its promise of calm, curiosity, and sensory exploration, the upcoming Forest Bathing immersion is set to be a standout experience for anyone seeking deeper connection with nature.

Booking details are available at omdarksky.com/whats-on/

You can also find out more on Tony Bailie’s Forest Therapy practice at: crannforesttherapy.com