Area Guides

Forest Therapy & Spa Therapy: Mental Health Heroes

This week, 13th - 19th May is Mental Health Awareness Week, and this year's theme—"Movement: Moving more for our mental health"—couldn't be more apt.

As we focus on the importance of movement in supporting our mental wellbeing, it’s essential to recognise the power of two incredible therapies: Forest Therapy and Spa Therapy. These therapies, when combined, can become true heroes for our mental health.

Immerse Yourself At Our Hotel & It’s Surroundings

Located in the heart of the stunning New Forest National Park, Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa is an extraordinary destination that offers unparalleled proximity to nature for forest therapy experiences. Our spa hotel in Hampshire is the perfect retreat that seamlessly blends the benefits of the forest with the healing power of spa therapy. Here, you can embark on a journey of rejuvenation and reconnection with both the natural world and yourself, all in one place.

Forest Therapy, also known as Shinrin-Yoku in Japanese, refers to the practice of immersing oneself in nature and harnessing its healing qualities. The New Forest provides a serene environment that is ideal for this therapeutic experience. As you stroll through the tranquil forests, inhaling the fresh scents of pine and earth, listening to the soothing sounds of bird songs, and feeling the gentle breeze on your skin, you’ll begin to feel a profound sense of calm and peace. Forest Therapy has been scientifically proven to reduce stress levels, improve sleep quality, boost mood, and increase overall well-being.

Spa Therapies At Award-Winning SenSpa

SenSpa, the award-winning Thai spa nestled within our hotel, offers an array of spa therapy experiences designed to complement and enhance the benefits of forest therapy. The hydrotherapy suite is a highlight, offering various facilities such as a large hydrotherapy pool, herbal sauna, crystal steam room, and ice room. Immerse yourself in the hydrotherapy pool to relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and stimulate the release of endorphins—a natural mood booster. The herbal sauna and crystal steam room use aromatherapy to promote relaxation and mental clarity. And for the true heroes, be brave enough to try the ice room, which invigorates the body and mind by improving circulation and reducing inflammation.

Thai Massage is another standout therapy offered in our spa, and is ideal for those seeking a unique blend of physical and mental rejuvenation. With roots in ancient healing practices, Thai Massage combines acupressure, stretching, and assisted yoga poses. It not only releases physical tension and promotes flexibility, but also has profound mental health benefits. The combination of gentle stretches and deep pressure stimulates the release of serotonin and endorphins, leaving you feeling blissfully relaxed and uplifted. A Thai massage is truly a treat for the body and soul.

As Mental Health Awareness Week comes and goes, let us embrace movement, both in the form of Forest Therapy and Spa Therapy. Take the time to indulge in these therapeutic experiences, and discover the mental health benefits they offer. Our four-star spa hotel, in the heart of the New Forest, is your haven for healing and relaxation. Embrace the power of nature and spa to nurture your mind, body, and soul. Take a step towards your mental health and enjoy the beauty of the New Forest on your next forest therapy and spa break.

This season, our new ‘Rise & Shine’ break is the perfect package for those looking to unplug, relax and unwind on a countryside retreat. This break includes luxury overnight accommodation, £30 spa credit to put towards your spa therapy needs, a £35 dinner allowance for a re-energising meal after an afternoon of forest therapy, and a complimentary bottle of Prosecco in your room on arrival.