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Welcome to our Harmony In Nature July Summer Issue. To ensure you receive our emails without any issues, please add katieandjo@harmonyinnature.uk to your ‘safe sender’ list.

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🌳 We still have places this Sunday 29th June for Forest Bathing! Book at Harmony Shop 🌳

 

July arrives in a shimmer of golden light, inviting us to slow our pace and bask in the stillness between midsummer celebrations and the height of summer’s abundance. The woodland air is warm and fragrant with pine resin, or infused with the sweet, almost honeyed perfume of lime blossom, while the gentle hum of bees adds rhythm to long, sun-drenched days.

 

🌿 The elderflowers of June give way to forming berries, while roses continue to bloom in joyful profusion. In woodlands and hedgerows, meadowsweet and yarrow grace the landscape with their subtle beauty, and the heady scent of warm earth mingles with the spice of crushed wild herbs underfoot.

 

🧺 This is a time for languid picnics, barefoot wandering, and simply being. Whether you’re retreating beneath leafy canopies, or resting beside a bubbling stream, nature offers her quiet companionship and grounding presence.

 

🌳 Join us for a Forest Bathing experience on Saturday 19th July, set within the serene grounds of the Harry Edwards Foundation near Shere, Surrey. Come and immerse yourself in the peace and beauty of the season.

July derives its name from Julius Caesar, who was born during this month. In 44 BCE, following his death, the Roman Senate renamed Quintilis to Julius in his honour—fittingly marking a time of light, leadership, and legacy. Yet long before Roman influence, the Anglo-Saxons called this month Æftera Līða, meaning “after Litha”—a beautiful nod to its position following the Summer Solstice, or Litha, the peak of the sun’s power in the ancient calendar.

 

✨ Æftera Līða invites us to linger in the fullness of summer, to savour each golden hour and nature’s expansive beauty. The heat deepens, the air grows sweeter, and the Earth rests in radiant bloom.

 

According to author Robert Graves and the modern Celtic tradition, July marks the transition between the seventh & eighth moon months of the Celtic calendar. The Oak Moon spans 10th June to 7th July and the Holly Moon runs from 8th July to 8th August.

 

As we move through the leafy height of early summer, we are embraced by the energy of the Oak Moon, a time when the trees stretch tall and strong, their canopies nearing full bloom. The majestic oak, revered by the ancient Druids, stands as a symbol of power, endurance, and sacred wisdom—its towering presence often forming the heart of ancient groves.

 

In Druidic tradition, oak is linked to fertility, strength, success, and abundance—qualities ripe for calling in during this vibrant season of outward expansion. The Celts named this lunar month Duir, a word believed to mean “door,” and perhaps the root of “Druid”—suggesting this time is a threshold, an opening to deeper understanding and natural alignment.

 

Folk wisdom tells us that carrying an acorn brings good fortune in interviews or new ventures, while catching a falling oak leaf promises health and vitality throughout the year.

 

As you wander through wooded paths or leafy parks this month, let the presence of the oak inspire groundedness and courage. Pause beneath its boughs, breathe deeply, and step through this seasonal doorway with intention and grace.

 

In the mythology of the Celtic year, this is when the Holly King takes the reins from the Oak King, reigning over the waning half of the year from Summer Solstice to Winter Solstice. While Oak represents expansion and outward action, Holly teaches us about restraint, maturity, and channelled power. It is the energy of the wise warrior—one who leads with integrity, compassion, and focus.

🌿 Holly's glossy leaves and protective spikes are nature's shield. In ancient times, it was planted near homes as a living guardian, believed to repel negative forces and invite benevolent spirits. Its evergreen presence symbolises resilience in the face of seasonal decline.

✨ In the heart of summer, while the Earth still glows with warmth, Holly whispers of preparation—of harvesting wisdom, conserving energy, and nurturing spiritual boundaries.

This is a potent time for:

Cleansing and clearing—removing what no longer serves you

Fortifying your boundaries, both energetic and emotional

Committing to your spiritual path with renewed clarity

🌑 With the New Moon rising during this tree month on 24th July, it’s an auspicious moment to sit in stillness beneath the stars, perhaps beside a holly tree, and plant your intentions for inner strength, truth, and protection.

 

Wherever you meet the Holly—be it in the wild, in a memory, or in your meditation—may it remind you of your quiet strength and sacred sovereignty.

 

Active: ~3rd July to 15th August

Peak: Around 30th July

Hourly Rate: ~5 meteors/hour

Best Viewing: Late evening to pre-dawn

Notes: Though not especially prolific, the Capricornids are famous for producing bright fireballs – slow, bold, and sometimes colourful meteors.

 

Active: ~12th July to 23rd August

Peak: Around 28th–30th July

Hourly Rate: ~10–20 meteors/hour at peak

Best Viewing: After midnight and pre-dawn

Notes: These are medium-speed meteors, best viewed from dark-sky locations in the southern part of the UK. They're known for leaving glowing trails.

 

By mid-to-late July, the first Perseid meteors may already begin to appear, though the true peak comes in mid-August. However, spotting a few early ones adds to the excitement and anticipation of what’s to come.

Combine meteor watching with your evening meditations or forest bathing sessions. As these showers tend to be gentle and drawn out, they’re perfect for relaxed viewing under the summer skies. 🌿🌠.

 

The Full Moon will occur on Thursday 10th July at 08:43, bringing us a Holly Full Moon. Join Joanna for a Full Moon Meditation on Thursday 10th, from 7.30-9.30pm.

 

The Solstice Holly New Moon peaks on Thursday 24th July at 20:11.

 

Katie shares a recent experience: “I was sitting in the garden at dusk, taking in the fading light and listening to birds and the breeze. Bats often swoop near the rooftops, but they’re usually too fast to see clearly. This time, one flew directly overhead, twice — its shape unusually distinct and larger than expected. Then two flew over together. It felt like a call to pay attention. I was reminded of a moment in 2018 during Forest Bathing training, when two bats swooped above our group in an ancient woodland, delighting us for what felt like 15 minutes.”

 

Bats are the only mammals capable of sustained flight, their wings adapted from forearms, allowing for greater agility than birds. With over 1,200 species worldwide — 18 in Britain — bats make up around 20% of all mammal species. While, in fact, they do see well, in low light they switch to other senses: airflow-sensitive hairs on their wings and echolocation, which uses sound and ultra-sensitive hearing to detect objects as fine as a human hair.

 

Bat offers rich symbolism. It reminds us that feeling out of place may mean we need a change — of environment, people, or pursuits — to truly thrive. Though unsettling, change calls for trust in our capacity to adapt. Bat also encourages us to listen deeply to our own intuition and speak up clearly — a skill that grows with practice and self-awareness.

 

Finally, Bat teaches that spending time in inner darkness— exploring painful or hidden parts of ourselves — is essential for growth and healing. And like the bat, which flies with precision yet cannot walk, we are reminded to embrace our own unique strengths, excelling at what makes us exceptional, rather than conforming to others’ expectations. In doing so, we become the masters of our own life.

 

[If you like the idea of exploring our island's traditional ways, then Katie thoroughly recommends The Way of the Buzzard, where Nicola and Jason Smalley share the wonders of nature through their eloquent words, as well as Jason's extraordinarily beautiful Earthlight films. Their membership is open once or twice a year.]

Spotlight 🌿✨ Sculpture & Soul Festival – 26–27 July ✨🌿

 

 🗓 Saturday 26th – Sunday 27th July 2025
📍 Birtley Woodland Art Space, Bramley, Surrey
💸 15% discount code - see below

Step into a weekend of wonder at the Sculpture & Soul Festival—a vibrant two-day celebration of craft, nature, and wellbeing, set in the enchanting grounds of Birtley House and Birtley Woodland Art Space.

This is no ordinary event. It’s a soulful gathering for adults and teenagers, offering the perfect blend of hands-on creativity, healing experiences, and outdoor adventure.

This immersive retreat invites you to awaken your senses and nourish your spirit, with a rich programme including:

🧺 Willow Weaving & Natural Crafts:
Flower Crowns, Dreamcatchers, Willow Spheres & Sculptures, Dragonflies

🪵 Woodworking & Pyrography:
Walking Stick Making, Wood Carving, Decorative Burning

🌸 Wellbeing Experiences:
Qigong, Forest Bathing, Sound Baths, The Art of Manifesting
Essential Oils at Home, Recharge & Reconnect
Angel Workshops, Soul Readings, Rediscover Ancient Wisdom

🎯 Outdoor Adventure:
Archery, Crossbows, Tomahawk Throwing, Learn to Ride a Onewheel

🎶 Live Music from singer-songwriter Anouska Assisi

✨ Add-on Extras: Yoga & Violet Flame Meditation

 

We’re bringing our signature soul-soothing sessions across the weekend:

🌲 Forest Bathing Taster & Full Sessions – reconnect with your senses in the serenity of the woods
🧚‍♀️ Nature Angel Workshop – attune to the elemental guardians of the land
🔮 Unveil Your Soul’s Story – group aura readings to reveal inner guidance

📜 Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living – timeless spiritual teachings to support everyday life
🌿 Essential Oils for Natural Wellbeing – explore practical uses for home & self-care
🍵 Wild Teas – discover the healing power of native weeds and trees for infusions, with
🔥 Mindful Smoke Crafting – create your own natural smudge stick for clearing rituals

💬 Chill & Chat Circles – share, reflect and restore in community
💜 Violet Flame Meditation (Optional Add-On) – an evening of deep energetic alchemy

Come and find us in the forest—we’ll be there all weekend, holding space for connection and healing.

 

Book Now – and make the magic happen!
We’re so excited… but we need your help to bring it to life! 💚
If we don’t reach viable numbers by 11th July, the event may be cancelled – with full refunds given.

💸 Save 15% on everything (except £25 camping) with code: HIN15*
🕒 * Valid until 11th July

🎫 Book here: 👉 Sculpture & Soul Festival Booking Page

🛶 Day passes and camping from Friday night also available!

Whether you're weaving a willow heart, soaking in sound healing, or walking quietly among the trees, the Sculpture & Soul Festival offers a rare opportunity to nourish your spirit and reconnect with what truly matters.

 

We’d love to share this magical weekend with you 🌿

 

Join us for a gentle woodland walk, immersing yourself in nature's seasonal beauty. Each session is unique, inviting you to slow down and engage with the sights, scents, and sounds of the forest. You may notice the intricate patterns of leaves, the earthy aroma of the woodland floor, or the gentle rustling of the trees. Our time together concludes with a Treelaxation—a deeply calming meditation beneath the canopy—followed by an optional woodland tea. We aim for you to leave feeling profoundly refreshed and reconnected.

 

Spending time among trees is a proven way to enhance wellbeing. Research suggests that it can support immune function, regulate blood pressure, balance blood sugar levels, and reduce stress hormones. Many participants report feeling calmer, more focused, and creatively inspired, with improvements in sleep and overall mental clarity. A deeper connection with nature often leads to a renewed sense of connection with oneself and others—a feeling we witness time and again.

 

Our walks take place in all weather, as nature’s charm unfolds in every season. With appropriate clothing—layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear—you’ll find comfort in the elements. A warm drink and a snack can enhance the experience, helping us to linger in nature’s embrace. Sessions proceed unless high winds or storms make conditions unsafe.

 

📜 Registration: A form must be completed in advance – look out for an email from your guide before the event.
🐕 Dogs: Only trained Guide Dogs permitted.
🌧 Weather Policy: We operate in all conditions except high winds (30mph+) and electrical storms. Please dress appropriately.
🚆 Accessibility: The location is remote and not easily accessible by public transport, but is possible.

 

With years of experience guiding Forest Bathing sessions across National Trust sites, RSPB reserves, Horsell Common, Kew Gardens, and more, we also collaborate with The Forest Bathing Institute (TFBI), contributing to studies on the benefits of nature immersion for mental health.

 

We look forward to welcoming you for a restorative, nature-immersive experience in the beautiful woodlands. 🌿✨

 

For groups of friends or colleagues, we offer bespoke 2–3 hour sessions for up to 10 participants, starting from £388.

 

Larger groups and alternative venues can be arranged, subject to location suitability and a pre-event assessment. A minimum of three weeks’ notice is recommended.

 

Contact us to arrange a session and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the woodland.

🌿 Immerse Yourself in Woodland Tranquillity 🌿

 

Join us for a transformative Forest Bathing session in the stunning private semi-ancient woodland at The Harry Edwards Foundation, nestled deep within the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This guided nature experience is based on the Japanese practice of Shinrin-Yoku, designed to help you slow down, engage your senses, and reconnect with the natural world.

 

Led by experienced guides Joanna Bristow-Watkins and Katie Robinson, we will take you on a mindful, sensory journey through the woodland. Feel the changes in the air, observe the seasonal colours, inhale the fresh, earthy scents, and listen to the gentle sounds of nature. As the session unfolds, you’ll deepen your connection through:

🌲 Guided Sensory Exploration – Engaging with nature through sight, touch, sound, and smell.
🌳 ‘Treelaxation’ Nature Meditation – A deeply restorative practice beneath the trees.
🍃 Woodland Tea Ceremony – A soothing moment to close the experience.

 

📅 Upcoming Public Sessions:
📍 The Harry Edwards Foundation, Surrey Hills
⏳ Duration: 3 hours (2.5 hours Dec–Feb)
💷 Cost: £39.77 (3 hours) | £37.77 (2.5 hours)

🗓 2025 Dates:

📢 IMPORTANT: Booking Within 48 Hours?
Please text 07930 414525 before booking to confirm availability.

 

Book any of the above public sessions at the Harmony Shop

 

We also arrange private bookings and/or corporate sessions at a selection of locations in the Surrey Hills (Guildford, Shere, Woking & Tadworth) and London (SW20, SW14, NW3).  Contact us for details on katieandjo@harmonyinnature.uk

What Makes Forest Bathing Different?
Wondering how Forest Bathing differs from a simple dog walk or stroll in the woods? Find out more on our blog: Why Forest Bathe?

 

Watch Our Forest Bathing & Nature Connection Video
Explore the diverse wellbeing benefits of Forest Bathing and our experiences with 'green' social prescribing and business events on Nadege’s YouTube Channel.

The Silver Tent TV Wood Wide Web Discussion
Our recent YouTube discussion delved into the fascinating world of the Wood Wide Web—what it is, how it was discovered, and how it works. The panel also shared their personal experiences with this interconnected natural system.

Silver Tent: A Global Community for Women Over 50
Silver Tent is an online global community for women over 50, empowering them to share their wisdom with the world. If you meet the criteria, request your group membership at the Facebook Group Page.

Through Harmony Healing, Joanna offers a variety of online esoteric and energy healing courses, including self-empowerment courses and via the Zenpass platform intuitive readings and 1-2-1 energy healing sessions.

 

Joanna also hosts monthly Full Moon Meditations online from 7.30-9.30pm (UK time) and produces a monthly Celestial Forecast, which includes insights on Moon Phases, Asteroid Showers, and Ancient & Modern Festivals.

 

Katie offers intuitive health mentoring and 1-1 places for Nurtured by Nature One-day Reset Retreats (Facebook Link, or message Katie without obligation for details). These retreats are designed for those needing a complete mind and body reset from their usual work and routines. Tailored to your needs, they include a selection from nutrition, breathing awareness, mindful movement, sounding or chanting, essential oils, ‘de-chemicalising’ your lifestyle, natural first aid, Reiki, and sensory nature connection through Forest Bathing.

 

The full day retreat is £366, with half days, or for 2-3 people, available on request. To discuss your ideal retreat, message Katie directly on 07596 830910.

 

 

mob. 07930 414525 Jo
mob. 07596 830910 Katie