British-based Center Parcs’ upcoming new spa at its Sherwood Forest Aqua Sana location will include a forest bathing area inspired by the spa’s woodland surroundings.

The spa is currently undergoing a £3m renovation – set to be complete early this year – that will transform the spa from a ‘World of Spa’ concept to a ‘Forest Spa,’ with new experiences inspired by nature.

Forest bathing – a well-known concept in Japan – is an immersive natural experience that involves taking in the forest atmosphere, with the aim to quietly enjoy and explore the natural environment, focussing all your attention on what your senses are telling you about the forest’s sounds, smells and colours.

Sherwood Forest’s new forest spa experiences will include open air walkways, outdoor relaxation areas submerged in the forest, and a treetop sauna that offers panoramic views over the forest canopy.

“Here at Aqua Sana we’ve always treasured the beautiful forest settings of our spas, so it’s great to have this recognised with the forest bathing trend,” said Kay Pennington, Aqua Sana group spa manager. “Being amongst trees is proven to reduce stress levels, so the woodland setting of our spas makes them the perfect escape from the everyday.

"At the new Aqua Sana Sherwood Forest Spa, we’ve created a bespoke Forest Bathing area where guests can truly absorb the natural forest environment and reap the benefits of this calming Japanese trend.”