At this time of year foraging is limited, there is not much to gather. But even in these dark days it is still really important to get outside and get in touch with nature – it is a natural way to bring your senses alive - it gets your blood moving, clears your head and its free! “Forest bathing” has so many health benefits and is an important part of foraging. Forest bathing is not taking a chilly bath in the park – it’s just being in the woods or green space and focusing on wild sights and sounds for some relaxation. The science points to multiple modes of action that all work together to make us feel great – fresh air and exercise, visual stimulus from natural organic shapes and colours together with peace and tranquillity. In our busy modern lives, taking time to just relax in a natural space is essential for our wellbeing. I hope you will make a resolution to spend more time in nature this year and we can explore some amazing wild foraged flavours.
I’d thought I’d start the year with our amazing National Tree – The Scots Pine. Being evergreen it is one of the few things you can easily pick before spring. Pine needles are always in found in pairs on the branch and you can tell Scots Pine from the red bark of the tree (it is called red pine elsewhere in Europe). Be sure to take only what you need – this is the most important rule of foraging. Pick a few sprigs from as high up as you can reach, making sure your tree is not near a road. Scots Pine needles are rich in vitamin C and in the past people chewed them or made pine tea to prevent scurvy. These mocktails (insert link) bring together fresh and citrusy from the pine tea with soft and creamy flavours from the pine syrup.