Forest bathing in the Fichtel Mountain Nature Reserve

A power spot that radiates peace

Last winter, Seidel did an additional five-day training course to become a forest health coach. She says: “It’s very exciting, as it’s not just about doing relaxation exercises outdoors, but more about discovering the forest as a partner for mindfulness, unwinding and sensory training.” Seidel explains further: “Even as a child I felt a close association with nature. I love exercise, sport and meeting people. For me, it’s important to live in harmony with nature.”

In Bad Alexandersbad, this business economist now has the chance to educate, motivate and inspire people on the topic of healthy living: “In Bad Alexandersbad, I’ve found somewhere that for me personally is a really fun place to work.” Bad Alexandersbad is situated in the heart of the Fichtel Mountain Nature Reserve at the foot of the Luisenburg – making Bavaria’s smallest healing spa an energising spot in the eyes of the health expert, and one that radiates a lot of energy and peace.

Sharpening your senses

When Elke Seidel takes health-seeking holiday makers on a forest bathing tour, she tends to allow them a short time to get attuned to their surroundings before leaving the wide paths and entering the quiet world of the forest well off the beaten track.

Sometimes they go barefoot, or they stop to explore a pine cone with all their senses. What does it feel like? What does it smell of? Or one member of the group closes their eyes and is led by another for a few minutes through the forest. This reinforces mutual trust and sharpens the senses still further.

After a tea ceremony or a shared gratitude mandala, members of the group eventually leave the forest and say their farewells.

Healing water and moor baths in the Fichtel Mountains

In Bad Alexandersbad, Elke Seidel does not just take guests out into nature, but also designs health programmes, such as the five-day offer “My Health Coaching in ALEXBAD”, which is all about establishing a healthier daily lifestyle.

The therapeutic products associated with Bad Alexandersbad – the healing water of the Luisenquelle spring and the moor baths –  provide help and support to participants. Seidel explains: “Our beautifully designed therapy centre, the ALEXBAD, opened for business in 2017. Much of it is made from granite, which is very typical of our region. Other beautiful features include the modern castle terraces and the lovely historic spa gardens.”