Woodland Wellbeing Sessions
"He told his psychiatrist and the social worker last week that KindleWoods is better than therapy! ” – Guardian of a Woodland Wellbeing Session Participant, January 2021
So what is Woodland Wellbeing all about, what will you actually end up doing if you decide to join us in the woods, and why is it so good?
Throughout our nine-year history, KindleWoods has worked with a diverse range of people within the North Yorkshire community, like vulnerable children, adults and families, as well as many people experiencing low mood, anxiety, depression or other mental health challenges.
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The Kindling Community Project has enabled us to run 1-1 Woodland Wellbeing sessions specifically for anyone struggling during lockdown since December 2020, in line with COVID-19 guidance.
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Designed around the Five Ways to Wellbeing, our person-centred programmes use a holistic approach, helping you to develop resilience, gain confidence, and learn new skills.
We cover a different wellbeing topic aimed at stress reduction in each session, all whilst actively supporting the sustainable management of local woodlands, improving biodiversity, and helping to harvest renewable resources.
The activities offered at Woodland Wellbeing Sessions are largely based on your needs and preferences, but here are some of the most popular activities that our expert practitioners can lead on:
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Fire-lighting – Almost always top of the agenda when participants arrive. Either learn some all-weather fire-lighting techniques from our wellbeing practitioners or simply relax until the fire is roaring, so we can have a chat over a cup of tea. We can build on your skills with each session and love seeing complete beginners turn into experts over time.
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Woodwork – Calming craft activities, like learning to whittle spoons and knives on one of our shave horses, often have a meditative effect due to the repetitive processes involved. Plus, you get to take home whatever you create!
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Bushcraft – Learn practical skills to thrive in nature, like cooking pizza, puddings, and bread on the fire, or cutting wood with a bowsaw.
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Conservation – With so much of our work relying on the transformative power of nature, it feels amazing to know your visit has helped the woodlands to thrive in return. Opportunities include coppicing in winter, planting seeds in spring, hedge laying, and assisting with forest management.
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Mindfulness techniques - Sir David Attenborough says the effects on our wellbeing of spending just ten minutes in a forest are “extraordinary”. Our wellbeing practitioners harness this restorative ability while building your knowledge of mindfulness theory and practical coping techniques, which you can apply easily in your day-to-day life.
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Social time – Lockdown in the UK has led to unprecedented levels of social isolation. The KindleWoods team is a super friendly bunch, and we are great listeners if you just want to chat. Any members of your family or support bubble are also welcome to join you at a session.
If a Woodland Wellbeing session sounds like something you would benefit from, you can either book a session right away or contact us to discuss any specific needs you may have.
