New concept for the day – Forest Bathing. Where have I been? The term apparently originated in the 1980s in Japan and after hearing about it, it’s so obvious that Forest Bathing should be a big thing!

In a tourism interview, Grant Hide who lives in De Kelders, not far from Gansbaai, explained that his business – Zen Guiding – specialises in Nature Therapy and Forest Bathing is one of the services offered. I felt as if I’ve been practicing this eco-therapy unknowingly for most of my life. Best thing – its free and available to all. There are also very few rules and no specific dress code and props required. Its about walking in nature and consciously connecting with what’s around you. Not that we need research to support this, but scientific studies confirmed that time spent in nature is good for us.

My top five Overberg forest bathing experiences:

• Fernkloof Nature Reserve, Hermanus – walking to the waterfall
• Stanford’s Cove at De Kelders
• Grootbos Milkwood Forest, Gansbaai
• Lomond’s outdoor tasting room between Gansbaai & Baardskeerdersbos
• Harold Porter, Betty’s Bay – walking to the waterfall or doing the ParkRun