Have you ever heard of forest therapy?

Walking within a forest, in close contact with nature, offers so many mental and physical benefits. Tuscany offers numerous routes to immerse oneself in the natural quiet of the forests: the area around Gargonza Castle is particularly suitable for practicing forest therapy.

Forest therapy: what it is and why it’s good for you

Forest therapy is a discipline with Eastern origins. consente di ridurre le concentrazioni di stress, aiuta a rafforzare il sistema immunitario, regola la pressione sanguigna e il battito cardiaco, aiuta a ridurre il colesterolo.

The Japanese name is Shinrin-Yoku but in the West the activity came under the name forest therapy. It is a true bath in nature, aiming to connect with the environment using all five senses. You will find a special and unexpected contact with the forest, which you can experience from a different perspective.

Indeed, the forest and the wilderness represent a state of consciousness: the condition in which all desire flows toward its fulfillment naturally, without effort.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN BENEFITS OF FOREST THERAPY?

The forest therapy activity is an adventure of deep communion with nature. Known and appreciated as a preventive therapy, total immersion in nature has scientifically proven therapeutic effects as well.

• It reduces the concentration of stress hormone in the body and counteracts hyperactivity.
• It lowers adrenaline levels, promoting calm and relaxation.
• It gives complete physical and mental detoxification.
• Acts on the immune system by increasing defenses.
• Regulates blood pressure and regulates heart rate.

After a day of forest therapy you will therefore have an incredible rejuvenating, soothing and detoxifying effect on all levels.

Where to do forest therapy in Tuscany

All the greatest thoughts are conceived while walking…

Taking a forest therapy course in Tuscany is a very relaxing and rejuvenating experience. You will have the opportunity to get in touch with the authentic nature of the forest.

FOREST THERAPY AT GARGONZA CASTLE

Our castle is literally surrounded by woods and forests.

To give our guests a way to relax and detach their minds in contact with nature, we have laid out 4 different paths within the 600 hectares of the Gargonza estate.

The routes all start from the Castle and reach points of interest on the history of the farm and hillside farming. During the trails you can admire ancient stone water sources, discover farm houses with fields and dry stone walls, which tell the story of farming in the past. Some points on the trails are particularly scenic and offer privileged views of the village of Gargonza and its 14th-century tower.

Fall is the ideal season to take advantage of a walk in the tranquility of the Gargonza woods. The colors at this time offer a truly unique show!

• The activity takes place outdoors and lasts about an hour.
• You will be accompanied by a guide specializing in Forest Therapy.
• If you would like to know the itineraries, schedules and arrangements, please contact us.