Most of our courses and sessions for adults include a combination of active, creative and mindful practices for wellbeing. We understand that many people may be introducing themselves to these activities for the first time whilst others have engaged with such practices in the past. EcoWild practitioners are equipped to work with people of all experience levels, offering both gentle introductions to and deeper learnings in nature-based practices. Read on to learn more about what these practices involve and some examples of the activities you can expect when taking part.
Woodland Habitat Walks
You will learn more about the woodland environment and the traditional medicinal and culinary uses of its plant and fungal life, whilst also connecting to the ancestors through the folklore of the plants and trees. We take you on guided walks through lesser known routes of the woodlands, enjoying whatever the season brings.
Tree Yoga
An EcoWild approach to stretching our bodies while getting to know the trees. Both physically and spiritually, trees are a great inspiration to many. In Tree Yoga we use their strength and support for balance, and as an alternative to a mat. We see the trees from a different perspective and move our bodies while connecting with their whole system, from mychorrizal fungal networks and roots, to the canopy stretching to the sky.
Wild Art
Working with natural found materials to create ‘wild’ or ‘land’ art can be transformative as it gives us the chance to sit with the ephemeral nature of life, alongside its beauty and myriad potential. We may use what we find to represent our own experience, relationships and feelings which can be very helpful and illuminating. Equally it can simply be restful and enjoyable to absorb ourselves in the patterns, colours and contrasts that we find in nature.
Skills & Crafts
Using natural materials we develop skills such as willow weaving, hazel hurdling, fire lighting and cooking, making artists’ charcoal and natural pigments, wood craft, tool work and more. Being able to create and cook with the plants around us can feel grounding and helps to root us in our local landscape. Time in focused present-centred activity outdoors can be very helpful in balancing life in a fast, fragmented, tech-led world. It also builds connection to all the lives that have gone before ours, and the ingenious ways they wove themselves with the living world.
Deep Ecology Mindfulness
We use the phrase Deep Ecology Mindfulness to signify that in this practice we go from noticing our own senses, to an awareness of and connectedness to our wider Earth body. We are in intimate connection to the air, water, soil and all living beings, just through breathing and eating. Coming into an experience of this broadens our perspective and sense of selves.
Nature Well
Based on the 5 pathways to Nature Connectedness, NatureWell is a framework for exploring how the living world constantly holds up a mirror for us, reflecting back our internal feelings, needs, wishes and emotions. It helps us make sense of our lives and feel more resolved. The 5 pathways are Contact, Beauty, Emotion, Compassion, and Meaning/Purpose.