Woods for health

Benefits of woodlands

Regular contact with good quality woodlands is linked to:

better health
reduced levels of chronic stress
reductions in obesity
improved concentration

Woodlands provide opportunities for people to:

connect with each other
participate in healthy activities, that improve their physical health, and enhance their mental well-being

Many of these benefits come from increased outdoor activity, like walking, wheeling and cycling.

Mental health benefits

improved mood
reduced rates of anxiety and depression
increased self-esteem
improved happiness
better sleep

Physical benefits

opportunities to improve stamina and physical mobility
lower risk of:
- heart disease
- obesity
- type 2 diabetes
- cancer
- osteoporosis
- and other chronic diseases

Social benefits

improved perception of neighbourhood, increased social interaction and stronger communities
a better sense of place and reduction in inequalities between the richest and poorest in society

Forest Research have a programme focused on exploring the wider societal wellbeing benefits of and relationships with trees and woodlands.

Societal benefits of trees, woods and forests (Forest Research website)

Branching out

Branching Out is an innovative woodland therapy programme, developed by Scottish Forestry, for people attending mental health services in Scotland.

It offers 3 hours of supported woodland activities on a weekly basis over a period of 3 months.

Each programme is delivered in partnership with outdoor delivery staff such as countryside rangers, together with mental health professionals from the referring service.

Important - training delivery

Please note that Scottish Forestry no longer delivers training for the programme.

If you are wishing to send a referral for a participant, please try and get in touch with your local Branching Out referral or delivery organisation in the first instance.

Activities are adapted to suit the group, woodland site, and time of year, and generally include:

physical activity such as health walks and tai chi
conservation activities such as rhododendron clearance and bird box construction
bush craft such as fire lighting and shelter building
environmental art such as photography and willow sculptures

When you complete the programme

On completion of the programme participants receive a certificate of achievement and tool handling certificate.

Graduates are encouraged to join community-based leisure, volunteer, and training opportunities.

Find out more about our Branching Out programme

would like to get involved
need more information about the programme
want to find out who your local delivery organisation is

Please include your geographic location when contacting us.