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. The project is currently offering sessions in Thorpe Hamlet and Lakenham.
Nature Connect is made up of projects that will include the following elements:
- 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
More information about each element further down the page.
Who is Nature Connect for?
People (over 18 years old) struggling with or at risk of low to moderate mental 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
September
6 week Mindfulness and Active Hope programme
Starting on Tuesday 15th September, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Pilling Park Community Centre
Sessions inspired by the pioneering work of Chris Johnstone and Joanna Macy.
Active Hope offers us a way to discover that hope can be something we do and not just something we feel. This course offers powerful tools and practices to cultivate resilience, strengthen our connection to nature, and nourish hope in the face of today’s environmental challenges.
Tetra Pak workshop
Wednesday 16th September, 1:30pm - 3pm
Harford Community Centre
Join creative facilitator Amelia Nunes for an eco-friendly art class to learn how to transform recycled juice or milk cartons into custom printing plates to use and take home, plus lots of inspiration for projects.
Urban Forest Bathing (a mindful stroll)
Thursday 24th September, 6pm - 7:30pm
Cooper Lane, Lakenham
Inspired by Shinrin-Yoku, 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 taking a break in your local park to walking barefoot on your lawn.
To book a place,get in touch with Lucy at [email protected] or on 07719971911
Step into Nature at Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse
Location: Centenary Wood Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse
Meeting point: in main Museum courtyard at 11am
When: May - October
What is Forest Bathing?
Forest bathing, translated from the Japanese Shinrin-Yoku, is a wellbeing practice for everybody - a mindful stroll that encourages us to tune into our senses, slow down and notice nature around us. Improve your mood, relax and reduce stress!
What to expect from this taster event:
A small group are guided on a slow, immersive walk punctuated with simple, sensory activities such as observing, smelling, and touching the natural world around us.
- Mats and chairs provided.
- Suitable for anybody over 16.
- No pets allowed, sorry!
Upcoming dates:
Spring Fling - Monday 25th May
Father’s Day - Sunday 21st June
Summer Holiday - Saturday 18th July
Barnyard Bash -Weds 5th August
Summer Holiday - Tuesday 18th August
Heritage Open Day - Sunday 13th September (free entry)
Apple Day - Sunday 4th October
To book a place, email [email protected] first come first served, limited places available.
Nature Connect Sounds