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 natureconnect@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk 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
January
Soundwalk with HomeSounds
Tuesday 20th January, 12pm – 2pm
Meeting at Sloughbottom Park Pavillion
Join field recordist and musician on a unique walk around along the River Wensum and in Mile Cross Marsh, tuning into the natural world. Using specialist microphones, we’ll take time out to listen deeply to the sounds we wouldn’t normally hear. Invitation to be curious and join for the walk.....
Walk and Talk for wellbeing
Thursday 22nd January, 12.30pm - 2pm
Meeting at Pilling Park Community Centre
A gentle stroll with opportunities for conversation. A chance to connect with people in local green spaces, to share worries and concerns, and to leave a little lighter.
Forest Bathing at Blickling Estate
Wednesday 28th January, 10am - 12pm
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!
Life Gardening
Friday 30th January, 1pm - 3pm
Facilitated by Shona from Buzzards and Worms at Old Lakenham Community Centre
Life Gardening a workshop to notice the seasons 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 natureconnect@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk or on 07719971911
February
Meeting a Wild Plant
Tuesday 3rd February 12.30pm - 2.30pm
At Pilling Park Community Centre
A gentle and creative workshop exploring the beauty of a single wild plant. We’ll start with a short, relaxed wander outdoors to find a plant that catches your eye. We’ll experiment with different materials to create a unique piece of art that celebrates your plant and your experience of slowing down and really noticing. No art experience is needed — just curiosity and a willingness to explore. Led by Holly Sandiford, Art at Work.
Forest Bathing (a mindful stroll outside) or Shinrin-Yoku
Thursday 5th February 12.30pm - 2pm
In Lionwood Nature Reserve
The practice of spending time in the forest 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.
Climate Café
Wednesday in February TBC
Meeting at Tuckswood Library
An open, inclusive space for people to get together to talk and share feelings about the climate, we will walk in the local natural space if weather allows.
To book a place,get in touch with Lucy at natureconnect@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk or on 07719971911
March
Climate Café
Wednesday in March TBC
Meeting at Pilling Park Community Centre
An open, inclusive space for people to get together to talk and share feelings about the climate, we will walk in the local natural space if weather allows.
Walk and Talk for wellbeing
Tuesday 17th March, 12.30pm - 2pm
Meeting at Tuckswood Library
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.
Fermentation Workshop with Brittens Botanicals
Tuesday 24th March, 10am – 1pm
Location Lakenham TBC
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 natureconnect@norfolkandwaveneymind.org.uk or on 07719971911