In October 2025 the Roaming Writer Creative Retreat returned to Howdy Glamping Site in Cumbria for a weekend of cosy autumnal creative workshops inspired by nature. In spite of Storm Amy making herself very well known with strong winds and rain, we all managed to stay dry and cosy in our accommodations, with fires and warm cinnamon porridge in the mornings cooked by Caleb. We made use of the Bell Tent and Party Barn to conduct some of our workshops and all left the weekend feeling recharged, inspired and more connected to nature!
The Creative Sylvotherapy Workshop hosted by Holly included Shinrin-Yoku (forest bathing) techniques using all five senses to completely immerse ourselves in the woodland of Howdy Glamping. We completed an introduction talk in which we learnt the science behind the physiological and mental health benefits of forest bathing. We then conducted a guided walking meditation, a sensory exploration of a chosen tree and guided visualisation meditation in which our chosen tree helped us to let go and turn over a new leaf in the changing Autumn season.
After reflecting through open group discussions and using our workshop booklets to journal, some of us went on to create nature mandalas to honour our chosen trees and practice gratitude for all that nature provides us.
Our participant feed back:
"Engaging, fun, relaxing"
"The workshop showed me how to be mindful and let my worries and busy mind take a break!"
"Interesting, calm, emotional"
"The meditative walk through the woods opened my eyes to small moments in a place I’m very familiar, stop, look, listen, you will see and learn more from the natural world around you."
"Fun, educational, relaxing"
"Although I was already familiar with forest bathing, I loved learning the scientific side of why I enjoy spending time with the trees and nature."
"Connecting, peaceful, well led"
See more reviews