I hope you are all having a wonderful summer!  I’m about to disappear on my annual family holiday but will be back at the end of August refreshed and ready to start again with lots of new ideas and walks to take us into the final quarter of the year.  

Firstly, a huge welcome to everyone from the Tunbridge Wells group – I really hope you will be able to join some walks soon and I am working on some new routes in and around Tunbridge Wells.  More info on that in September.

For those of us taking part in the Walk Tonbridge Festival marathon on Sunday 18th September, there are a few longer walks in the schedule to support our training, however anyone can join as there are always options to do shorter distances – just let me know so we can arrange cars etc.  

Sunday 21 August – Train adventure from Tonbridge (16 miles) but option to do 7 miles, 9 miles or 13 miles or the full 16miles!  Just contact me to let me know what you want to do and we will arrange it in terms of transport etc!  

There will be walks in the week of 22 August but not at the usual times.  I will post details on the Whatsapp group (let me know if you are not on the group and wish to join – it is admin only so you won’t be bombarded), or they are all on the website.   

I am still working on the schedule for September (there will be something for everyone, short and long walks, gentle, moderate and harder walks), but why not make the most of the final summer days with:  

Nordic Walking and Paddleboarding day on 10 September –at Cuckmere Haven –a stunning coastal walk followed by paddleboarding with Ana from SUP with Ana on the calm inland waters (not the sea!)……..  

Nordic Walking and Forest Bathing on 23 September – taking place in lovely ancient woodland near Speldhurst, this will be a half day mini retreat starting with a Nordic Walk and leading into an immersive Forest Bathing Experience (no swimsuit required!), lead by Kate Beynon (Kate is an accredited Breathworks Mindfulness Teacher and Forest Therapy Guide).  This simple yet deeply nourishing practice has been scientifically proven to be effective in lowering stress hormones, reducing blood pressure and heart rate, improving concentration and memory and is also a powerful way to boost the immune system.  During a Forest Bathing Experience you have time to immerse yourself deeply in your sensory experience of nature.  Through sensory awareness and simple mindfulness invitations, the volume of your thoughts quietens as you gently connect to the forest and its wildlife.  The morning will end with a traditional Forest Bathing Tea Ceremony of herbal or foraged teas and healthy snacks giving you a chance to share your experience with others in the group should you want to.  

As always do let me know if you have any questions and wishing you all a very happy summer!  

JOSINE BAINES

Lead Instructor and Business Owner

NORDIC WALKING TONBRIDGE