What is Nature Connect?
Nature Connect by Norfolk and Waveney Mind aims to help adults to build a relationship or develop a deeper contact with nature for improved resilience and overall better good mental health.
Starting with a pilot year in 2022 based in the locations of Kings Lynn, Mile Cross and Great Yarmouth. The project has developed, whilst working collaboratively with organisations and residents we have continually championed nature connection for the health and wellbeing of humans whilst recognising the impact that healing this relationship for us is the vital change we need to protect the environment we live in and all other beings we cohabit with.
Nature Connect includes the following projects:
- Nature connection activities (for example: growing, creative arts, ecotherapy and foraging)
- Mindful walking and forest-bathing
- Climate Cafes: an open, inclusive space where people can share their emotions
- Mindfulness and Active Hope course: our innovative, six-week programme based on the Active Hope model
Who is Nature Connect for?
People (over 18 years old) struggling with or at risk of low to moderate mental health conditions, people with long-term health conditions, those who are experiencing social isolation and loneliness. However, ultimately everyone is welcome. The sessions are always peer led, invitational and in a group so we ask that people joining agree to the group agreements at the start of the session so we can provide and accountable, welcoming space where people leave having benefitted from the session and are more connected.
How do I access Nature Connect?
We are a self-referral service, and we ask all participants to complete a brief booking form to join our sessions. This is so we can fully support everyone during and after the session if needed.
How can I find out more about Nature Connect?
Call us on 0300 330 5488 option 1 or email [email protected] where you will be responded to by a member of the team, both options someone will provide you with further information about this service and help you to complete the registration form.
Whether it’s you, someone in your family, a friend or a work colleague, we are here to support you and welcome any questions to make sure that you feel comfortable to join.
Upcoming Groups and Workshops
March
Fermentation Workshop with Brittens Botanicals
Tuesday 24th March, 10am – 1pm
Harford Community Centre
An informative, fun and hands on workshop to learn about the science behind fermentation and why fermented foods are so beneficial for you. There will be samples to try, we will have a go at making something to take home and plenty of tea, coffee and herbal infusions.
To book a place,get in touch with Lucy at [email protected] or on 07719971911
April
Growing workshop with Nik from Edible East
Saturday 11th April, 11am – 1pm
Pilling Park Community Centre
Join Nik Thomson from Edible East for a workshop covering gardening topics such as sowing, growing on and propagating to answer questions for the year ahead, learn the skills to develop your garden or join to give yourself time and space to think about what you might like to grow and meet others interested to do the same.
Urban Forest Bathing (a mindful stroll)
Tuesday 14th April, 6pm - 7:30pm
Coopers Lane, Lakenham
Inspired by Shinrin-Yoku, Forest Bathing is the practice of spending time in nature for better health, happiness and a sense of calm. A pillar of Japanese culture for decades, Shinrin-Yoku is a way to reconnect with nature, from walking mindfully in the woods, to a break in your local park, to walking barefoot on your lawn.
Forest Bathing at Blickling Estate
Wednesday 22nd April, 10am - 12pm
Blickling Estate
Forest bathing, translated from the Japanese Shinrin-Yoku, is a mindful walk outside that encourages us to tune into our senses, slow down and take notice of the nature around us. Benefits can include improved mood and reduced stress - leave feeling more relaxed!
Transport available from REST Aylsham. Reserve your spot by talking to the team at the REST Aylsham or by emailing [email protected]
Life Gardening (a workshop to notice the seasons) facilitated by Shona from Buzzards and Worms
Friday 24th April, 1pm - 3pm
Pilling Park Community Centre
A workshop developed to support people connect with nature to help us reflect and celebrate our own lives – looking at your life like a garden. A session to reflect each season, informed by eco-therapy principles.
To book a place,get in touch with Lucy at [email protected] or on 07719971911
May
Climate Cafe
Tuesday 5th May, 1pm - 3pm
Pilling Park Community Centre
An open, inclusive space for people to get together to talk, we will walk in the local natural space if weather allows.
Creating Phytograms
Tuesday 12th May, 1pm - 3pm
Tuckswood Library
Join artist Holly Sandiford fo an alternaative photography sesssion. We will explore nature's textures and colours through the creation of phytograms using expired film paper. The chemistry in the plants reacts with the paper, so each print comes out differently. Suitable for all abilities.
To book a place,get in touch with Lucy at [email protected] or on 07719971911
June
Walk and talk (gentle stroll with opportunities for conversation)
Tuesday 9th June, 12:30pm - 2pm
Meeting at Jubilee Park
A walk and talk for wellbeing, a gentle stroll with opportunities for conversation. A chance to connect with people in local green spaces, to share worries and concerns – to leave a little lighter.
Urban Forest Bathing (a mindful stroll)
Tuesday 16th June, 6:30pm - 8pm
Ketts Heights
Inspired by Shinrin-Yoku, Forest Bathing is the practice of spending time in nature for better health, happiness and a sense of calm. A pillar of Japanese culture for decades, Shinrin-Yoku is a way to reconnect with nature, from walking mindfully in the woods, to a break in your local park, to walking barefoot on your lawn.
Foraging walk with Nik from Edible East
Friday 12th June, 1pm - 3pm
Pilling Park
Join for a walk to safely identify plants around Pilling Park, first we will gain knowledge on how to use online databases to discover what is in your area and learn what is safe to eat and guidance on cooking.
To book a place,get in touch with Lucy at [email protected] or on 07719971911