Take advantage of an immersion in the forest to relax under the trees, swim in the depths of the Mont Blanc thermal springs, experience an hypnosis session outdoors...This summer, your stay in the Alps promises a complete return to nature. Immerse yourself in the highest points of nature in Europe and come out more relaxed than ever!
Forest baths
Taking a forest bath is possible—it's even a widespread custom in Japan, called shinrin yoku. The practice has started to develop in France in recent years, under the name "sylvotherapy". Don't worry, you will not be asked to hug a tree, unless your heart tells you to, but you are encouraged to walk silently for a long time at a moderate pace in the woods, accompanied by a guide, and then meditate with one or more trees. The objective? Thanking these hundred-year-old giants for being there for us and recharge your batteries with them.
Spiritually, it's rewarding. On a scientific level, tree molecules such as terpenes and phytoncides have been shown to provide beneficial effects on the nervous system. The result: reduction of stress, strengthening of the immune system, benefits to digestion and heart rate. Sylvotherapy sessions are offered in Divonne-les-Bains with the company "Entre les arbres". And in Courchevel, you can experience dancing in the forest with Shamhballa!
The thermal baths
Relaxing in the water while taking care of your body is an enticing promise! At Monêtier springs, you're experiencing the same waters the Romans used to visit. Inspired by the local Roman origins and Nordic treatments, Les Grands Bains du Monêtier offers a deep immersion of well-being, with a course of invigorating jets, variable temperature saunas, two hammams, a Vaucluse waterfall or several aquabeds. For a beautiful finish, bask in the outdoor jacuzzi to enjoy the benefits of spring water while soaking up the mountain sun.
At the Bains du Mont Blanc, a theatrical and unique sensory journey awaits you. The idea: to let you follow the course of the water in the depths of the earth. The framework? Indoor pools and other open ponds at the foot of the Bonnant Gorge are your personal swimming holes. You sail from workshop to workshop: steam baths, immersive caves, hot slabs, pools of thermal water heated at 39°C (102.2°F), experimental corridors and saunas to better find rest. The term "back to basics" has never been so aptly named!
Mindful nature baths
If you need a real break from your daily life, a simple walk in nature may not be sufficient. In Les Orres, hypno-hiking could succeed in getting you the green fix you need: after a few minutes of walking, you can take a hypnosis session outdoors. This is a new way to enjoy your hike in a more present and connected way, and to fully appreciate the benefits of nature.
In Auzet, in the Alpes de Haute Provence, hiking is done in full mindfullness thanks to the sophrologist and mountain guide Pascal Mazzani, who combines gentle walking and Zen breaks. Walking lends itself to contemplation, and the state of calm obtained thanks to sophrology allows even the most hyperactive to relax!
By Caroline de Surany
Author and journalist with a taste for the good things in life
