Wintering in the Cabilla Valley: The Final Stretch Before Spring.

At Reia, our commitment to caring for the planet goes beyond the products we make—it’s about the choices we champion, the landscapes we protect, and the rituals we return to, season after season.

That’s why we’re proud to introduce an ongoing series in partnership with The Thousand Year Trust—the only UK charity dedicated to restoring our lost temperate rainforests. Once, these rich ecosystems covered 20% of the British Isles. Today, less than 1% remains. Through rewilding, research, and long-term conservation, The Thousand Year Trust is working to bring them back. Their approach is simple but profound, much like an oak tree. The Sessile Oak, a keystone species of these forests, takes 1,000 years to grow, thrive, decay, and return to the earth. This long-term view—rooted in patience, resilience, and deep restoration—is something we deeply admire/cherish.

This is the first instalment in an ongoing series that will follow their work as the seasons turn. As winter draws to a close, their latest update reminds us that even in stillness, life is quietly preparing for renewal. 

Final Stretch of Winter in the Cabilla Forest 

Winter, though seemingly quiet, is far from dormant. Beneath the surface, the soil is alive with activity—earthworms, fungi, and microbes working away, breaking down organic matter, and enriching the earth. Walking through the forest under the bare canopy, it's incredible to think so much potential is hidden just beneath the surface. The seeds that have fallen, the plants that are resting, are all waiting for the right moment to rise again. The subtle bustle beneath our feet reminds us that nature is never truly still, and in these final weeks of winter while we excitedly anticipate the longer, warmer days, the forest is also preparing for the renewal that comes with spring. 

Spending time in the forest during these winter months has been incredibly restorative. The cool, crisp air clears the head and refreshes the spirit. The sounds of the forest are gentler now—many of the animals have tucked themselves away for warmth, but the river Bedalder continues its constant, soothing flow. Its sound has become a beautiful backdrop, the rhythm of the water the perfect focal point for mindful walks. It’s the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Winter is a time of preparation, and as we approach the end of this quiet season, we’re reminded that the forest is working hard behind the scenes. The rewilding journey we’ve been on at Cabilla is one of patience and steady progress, and as we head into these final weeks of winter, we know that new life is quietly being nurtured beneath the soil. The winter months also offer a special opportunity to connect with nature in a peaceful, restorative way. I invite you to try the practice of forest bathing with this simple exercise; 

Setting Your Intention for Spring 

This simple yet powerful forest bathing practice helps you connect with the natural rhythms of the seasons while setting an intention for the spring ahead. It’s perfect for those in urban spaces as well as those with access to a woodland, looking to align with nature’s upcoming burst of growth and renewal. 

1. Find Your Center: Take a quiet moment in your local park, green space or woodland. Stand or sit comfortably with your feet grounded to the earth. Close your eyes and take a few deep, calming breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a moment, and exhale slowly through your mouth. Let any tension or distraction melt away. 
   
   
2. Tune into the Energy of Spring: Imagine the energy of spring surrounding you: the renewal, the growth, and the blossoming life. Even in the early days of the season, nature is quietly preparing for its next phase. With each inhale, feel that sense of new beginnings filling you up. With each exhale, let go of anything that no longer serves you. 
   
   
3. Look for Signs of Renewal: Open your eyes and gently focus on your surroundings. Even in the urban environment, notice the tiny signs of nature preparing for spring. Look for buds starting to form on trees, small shoots pushing through the earth, or flowers beginning to bloom. These moments remind you that everything has its time and purpose. 
   
   
4. Set Your Intention: As you observe the growth around you, take a moment to set an intention for the upcoming spring. What would you like to grow in your life? What do you wish to nurture? It could be a personal goal, a relationship, or even an emotional or spiritual practice. Stand tall, place your hands on your heart, and silently or out loud declare your intention for the season ahead. Trust that this is the time to let your intention take root, just like the plants around you. 
   
   
5. Feel the Spring Energy in Your Body: As you walk through the park, imagine yourself walking toward the future with your intention in mind. Notice how the air feels a bit fresher, the ground beneath your feet more stable. With each step, envision the positive energy of the change of season support your journey. Feel your intention growing within you. 
   
   
6. Close with Gratitude: Find a quiet spot to pause and close your eyes. Place your hands on your belly or chest, breathing deeply and with gratitude. Thank yourself for taking this time to connect with nature and for honoring the growth within you. Trust that, just like the natural world, your intention will bloom in its time.