A TREE-HUGGING author is releasing a book that explores why and how trees make us feel better.

Cheryl Rickman, from King’s Somborne, will launch her brand-new book TREE GLEE: How and why trees make us feel better that’s been endorsed by Dr Jane Goodall, Dame Joanna Lumley and Alan Titchmarsh MBE at P&G Wells Bookshop in Winchester.

TREE GLEE is part ode and love letter to trees, part practical wellbeing guide, nature-connection manual and part call to action. The launch will take place on publication day, at 7pm on Thursday, October 13 at the bookstore in College Street.

Cheryl, 48, will be sharing the mental and physical benefits of time spent with trees and what people can do to grow ‘branches of wellbeing. The author will also share how woodlands can support wellness and how people can help nurture the trees in return.

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The qualified positive psychology practitioner said: “I’ve long known that being around trees has given me solace and a sense of calm comfort and I’ve been interested in the power of nature on wellbeing and creativity ever since my daughter went to a local forest school a decade ago. But I wanted to dig deeper to find out why trees make us feel better. And what I discovered about evolutionary biology, the role our senses play and what happens to our bodies and minds when we are near trees is fascinating. Trees can be an essential tool in our wellbeing toolkit.”

Hampshire Chronicle:

The nature advocate’s book looks at the psychology behind fascination with trees, examining how they can comfort, restore and revitalise people and shares stories of ancient trees across the globe. Chapters and photos explore topics such as forest bathing and nature therapy, woodland wellbeing and tree mythology, conservation initiatives and creative activities.

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Tree Aid patron Dame Joanna Lumley said: “This lovely book is an absolute gem.”

Hampshire-based gardening expert and television presenter, Alan Titchmarsh MBE added: “Trees are so important to our health and that of the planet. This inspirational book shows just how we can thrive together.”

Founder of the Jane Goodall Institute & UN Messenger of Peace, Dr Jane Goodall DBE, said: “I have loved trees as long as I can remember, and Cheryl Rickman’s wonderful book illuminates the vitally important role they play, not only in maintaining the health of our planet and a habitat for so many living creatures, but also in providing us with mental and physical healing. Tree Glee also presents ideas on how you can help protect our amazing trees for the good of all.”

To register to attend the TREE GLEE book launch at P&G Wells go to pgwells.co.uk/cheryl-rickman-book-launch/.