Nature connection open day

Shared Earth Learning is hosting an open day on Wednesday 10th May from 11am to 2pm for people to find out more about their adult nature connection and wellbeing group.

The group is situated near Vallis Veg, an 18-acre organic farm near to Vallis Vale, and it supports children, young people and adults to access outdoor learning or a calm space in nature to cope with difficulties or just being outdoors and enjoying the environment.

Organisers say, “To celebrate a long-awaited spring, we are holding an open day at the land. You are warmly invited to drop in for a cuppa and a look around and have cake and some seasonal campfire food.

“The mental health and wellbeing benefits of nature connection are now widely documented and accepted. But what is nature connection? One aspect is getting outside and allowing your senses to do what they naturally evolved to do to hear the birds singing, to feel the warmth of the sun and the breeze, to see the vibrant greens and colours of the trees and plants, to taste freshly foraged wild food and delicious food cooked on a campfire, and to smell the damp earth and the fresh flowers.

“Feeling better already? Then imagine being invited to do this every week with a group of friendly, gentle people who provide the opportunity to talk and listen non-judgmentally.”

The Shared Earth Learning adult wellbeing group is open to anyone who is experiencing social isolation, mental, physical health or learning issues or just the challenge of being human. The group is run by experienced forest school leaders, but very much led by what the participants are interested in doing.

Organisers added, “We are based on the beautiful agro-forestry site of Vallis Veg on the outskirts of Frome where we grow food on our own allotments. Other activities include natural seasonal crafts, mindfulness, campfire cooking and lots of drinking tea!

“The group meets every Wednesday throughout the year 10.30am to 2.30pm and is free to attend. We take referrals from GP’s, health connectors and other local support organisations, but people are absolutely welcome to self-refer. If you feel this is for you, no matter your circumstances then come and check us out.

“The location is only accessible by foot. The only parking available is at either Wallington Way, with a five min flat walk across the field, or the Vallis Vale carpark with a 10 to 15 min walk uphill. However, if you have access needs, please do contact us directly to discuss them, as we will do our very best to accommodate your needs. Similarly, if transport is a barrier please get in touch as we may be able to help.”

For more information, please get in touch via email at sharedearthwellbeing@gmail.com and/or ring or text Kirsty on 07708 476188.