Autumn is my favourite season for so many reasons; the beautiful changing colours, cosy clothing, comforting hot drinks and a wonderful chill in the air but the autumn and winter months can also be a time of the year that includes SAD or seasonal affective disorder as well as a general gloomy feeling. However, there are lots of wonderful aspects of autumn and seasonal activities that can boost your wellbeing such as shinrin-yoku - the Japanese concept of 'forest bathing'.
The idea of forest bathing was created in Japan in the 1980s and has become an integral aspect of the Japanese approach to healthcare and wellbeing ever since (Japan has one of the highest life expectancies in the world). Various studies, conducted in Korea and Japan, have found that spending time in nature has a calming effect on the nervous system, can reduce stress and anger, help to manage anxiety and also lower blood pressure - even after only a short time spend surrounded by nature. I love spending time on autumnal walks and it is definitely something I've missed during lockdown so I will be taking up the forest bathing as often as I can.
We mustn't let the gloomy and constantly rainy English weather prevent us from forest bathing and it's many benefits! A durable, waterproof coat is all that is needed, well perhaps a pair of boots and a cosy jumper too. I was very kindly sent the very warm and toasty 'Iona' coat from the lovely people over at Lighthouse Clothing which is ideal for the damp autumn weather we've been having recently in Manchester, although to be honest, it is like this for most of the year!
The Iona coat features a cute striped lining which is insulated, super soft and padded to keep you warm on your forest bathing adventures. It is also waterproof (essential year round in Manchester), windproof and breathable. If the coat wasn't practical enough already, it has two large pockets and a secure internal pocket with a zip for your valuables.
I adore the colour of this coat, it is an autumnal dusky moss green that is perfect when paired with a tshirt, black jeans and boots. I also love the cut which is much more flattering than most waterproof coats! I opted for a UK 8 and it fits me perfectly; additionally the coat length and sleeve length are fantastic too, even though I'm very petite.
It is a perfect practical and cosy waterproof coat that is also flattering in its shape, unique in its colour and ideal for autumnal walks in the forest. I have many coats and jackets (it's one of those things I can never have enough of) and this one is by far my favourite practical coat. I couldn't be happier with my new and cosy coat and I'd highly recommend it - it would also make a great practical gift this Christmas. Check out Lighthouse for more gorgeous coats as well as a range of womens, mens and childrens clothing.
What do you think of the Iona coat from
Lighthouse? Will you be taking part in any forest bathing this autumn?
* AD - gifted item sent to me, not paid
That jacket looks super cosy!
ReplyDeleteI like being with nature, but am no longer keen on walking in forests, due to the number of ticks, however as kids, we walked everywhere at weekends no matter what the weather - we'd just wrap up well! x
ReplyDeleteBeautylymin
That coat looks so warm and comfy. Definitely my sort of style too x
ReplyDeleteI live how practical this cost is and I really like how snug and warm you look x
ReplyDeleteThat coat looks lovely and really suits you. I've heard great things about Lighthouse in the past so will definitely be going to them when I need a new coat.
ReplyDeleteThat coat looks so comfortable! I need a new coat but not got one yet as haven’t been going on so seemed pointless xx
ReplyDeleteI absolutely adore that coat! It looks perfect for this time of year xx
ReplyDeleteTiffany x www.foodandotherloves.co.uk
I really need to invest in a good coat that's not my full-on winter one but is waterproof with a hood and warm enough...
ReplyDeleteJasmine xx
We have a couple of lighthouse clothing bits! Just be careful with the hood as the poppers break really easily xx
ReplyDeleteNature definitely brings a sense of calmness! J x
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