Rooted Resonance Forest Retreat

A Half Day Retreat for Adults, in Rumster Forest in Caithness.

Sunday 1st November 2026

2 until 4.30 pm

In the Bothy and Outdoor Centre at Rumster Forest

A half day to focus on your wellbeing, by connecting with the natural landscape, immersing yourself in the grounding and healing energies of the forest, and by allowing a plethora of sound vibrations to surround you and wash over you.

During the session you will be guided through activities that include:

Forest Bathing and Nature Connection, with Mindful Walking, and gentle Dru Yoga

A lying down Sound Bath and Guided Meditation for complete Relaxation

Throughout the afternoon you will be guided to step into flow, through these various practices, enabling you to completely relax, de-stress, unwind, and be in the present moment.

Why the Forest?

Studies have shown that spending time in nature, particularly in forests, can lower blood pressure, decrease anxiety, and improve mood. Simply listening to the sounds of the forest can help reduce cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress. Moreover, forests are rich in negative ions, which are believed to boost energy levels and enhance overall vitality. Negative ions are abundant in natural settings like forests, waterfalls, and beaches, and have been linked to improved mood, mental clarity, and physical well-being. Breathing in these negative ions in a forest environment can help increase oxygen flow to the brain, leaving you feeling more alert and invigorated.

Forests are teeming with life, from towering trees to tiny insects, all interconnected and dependent on each other for survival. This interconnectedness mirrors our own energetic system, where every thought, emotion, and action has a ripple effect on our well-being. When we immerse ourselves in a forest environment, we are surrounded by this harmonious energy flow, which can help realign our own energetic patterns.

Agenda for the Afternoon

2 PM | Welcome to the Forest

Gather at the Bothy for a gentle opening circle.

2:10 PM | Mindful Movement & Forest Yoga (indoor and outdoor – weather permitting)

Dru Yoga is a flowing accessible yoga that works with the body, breath, energy and emotions together, helping you move from tension and disconnection towards strength, balance and a clearer relationship with yourself. It’s a little bit like t’ai chi and yoga combined.

3 PM | Forest Bathing: The Peaceful Walk

A guided sensory walk. We will move slowly, inviting you to open your ears to the wind, touch the texture of bark, and notice the light filtering through the canopy. We’ll pause to simply “be” in the forest’s embrace.

3:30 PM | Snack & Connection

A communal break to enjoy the snacks you brought. We’ll share stories from our walk and enjoy the quiet nourishment of the woodland atmosphere.

3:45 PM | Sound Bath Immersion

We conclude by lying down on the forest floor (or sitting comfortably). Using gentle instruments, we’ll bathe in sound to integrate our experiences and leave feeling restored, connected, and calm.

4:25 PM | Closing Circle

A final moment to express gratitude to the forest and each other before heading home.

What to Bring and What to Wear –

Wear loose comfortable clothes, with layers. Bring warm socks if you have them.

Bring Waterproofs and Outdoor Clothing.

Bring Hot Drinks, Fruit and Snacks for Yourselves

A Yoga Mat (if you have one)

Blanket and Cushion

What is the Cost?

£50 per Adult Payable in advance by purchasing on the website.

This purchase is non-refundable.

What is Forest Bathing?

Forest bathing, also known as Shinrin-yoku in Japan, involves immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Spending time in nature has been shown to lower blood pressure, reduce cortisol levels, and boost immunity. Research has shown that forest bathing can improve mood, increase focus, and enhance creativity. Studies have also found that spending time in nature can lead to decreased levels of anxiety and depression.

What is a Sound Bath?

A sound bath is a therapeutic experience where participants lie down and listen to the sounds of various instruments, such as crystal singing bowls, gongs, and chimes. The vibrations and frequencies produced by these instruments are believed to promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and induce a meditative state. Just like a traditional bath cleanses the body, a sound bath cleanses the mind and spirit, leaving you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Where is Rumster Forest Outdoor Centre?

The Rumster Outdoor Centre can be accessed from the Achavanich-Lybster road via the mast car park. You can travel from Wick, Lybster or Thurso to it by car. The Outdoor Centre is signposted on the Achavanich-Lybster Road. The gate to the Outdoor Centre will be open for your visit so you will be able to drive 2 miles along the forest track from the main car park to the Centre and Rotundary. Toilet facilities and the Outdoor Kitchen will be available for our use.

Your Retreat Facilitator

Lisa McDonald is a retreat facilitator and energy healer, dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey toward personal transformation and holistic well-being. With over a decade of experience in the wellness industry, Lisa blends her extensive knowledge of mindfulness practices, energy healing techniques, and personal development strategies to create transformative experiences for you.

In addition to her retreat work, Lisa is a skilled energy healer, utilising modalities such as Kundalini healing, chakra balancing, and sound therapy to promote healing and balance. Her compassionate presence and insightful guidance have helped countless individuals achieve clarity, rejuvenation, and a deeper connection to themselves.

Lisa is not just a facilitator; she is a passionate advocate for holistic living, empowering others to embrace their potential and cultivate a life filled with purpose and joy. Join her on a journey of self-discovery and healing, and unlock the transformative power within you.

You can find out more about Lisa at https://havenhousehealing.com/ and you can book an Energy Healing session with her, prior to or after the retreat here – https://havenhousehealing.com/product/kundalini-energy-healing/

THIS RETREAT IS NON-REFUNDABLE. IN THE EVENT OF WET WEATHER, WE WILL STILL BE OUTDOORS AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE.PLEASE WEAR AND BRING SUITABLE CLOTHING>