Healing in Cabilla’s Ancient Temperate Rainforest

The Convex Conversation

Against the backdrop of an ancient temperate rainforest at Cabilla on Bodmin Moor, a high-flying couple - both deeply affected by mental illness – have dramatically changed their lives and turned to the restorative powers of nature to help them and others heal.

Merlin Hanbury-Tenison served as a British Army Major and completed three tours of Afghanistan, but had a breakdown triggered by Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from an IED explosion. His wife Lizzie, who worked with dynamic founders of brands like Green and Blacks and Charlotte Tilbury, suffered burnout and postnatal depression.

Together they’ve created a nature-inspired relaxing space for retreats where stressed out, worn-out people – including US military personnel and exhausted nurses - can recharge and reconnect with nature. Sound baths, somatic movement, wild water swimming, guided walks in the forest, yoga, pilates are just some of the offerings.

Photo by John Hersey

Photo by Bex Aston

Photo by Jenna Foxton

Photo by Sophie Bolesworth

Photo by Beth Druce

Photo by Bex Aston