A local nature-based therapy company is offering monthly nature-connection sessions to improve people’s mental wellbeing, following grant funding from Frome Town Council.
Run by Better Nature Eco-Therapy CIC and held at Frome Field 2 Fork, the sessions aim to improve mental wellbeing through a mindful engagement with nature and provide a welcoming space where residents can relax by a fire, engage in nature-based crafts, try outdoor cooking and learn valuable nature-connection techniques.
In addition, Better Nature Eco-Therapy is working towards establishing its own bespoke venue in a beautiful natural space in Frome, further enhancing its ability to support the community. Founders Barbara Gonzalez and Tom Veck are offering these sessions to the community at a nominal cost.
“We’ve seen so many people transform their mental health and well-being by learning new ways to connect deeply with nature,” says Barbara. “Having the opportunity to provide a monthly session for residents at little to no cost is really exciting for us.”
Tom also highlighted the importance of these sessions for those who have completed their six-week nature connection courses, which are run in partnership with Frome Medical Practice and Beckington Medical Practice.
He said, “It was really important for us that when people finish our six-week courses for those experiencing anxiety, low mood, or depression, they have a space to continue their practice and maintain the social relationships they’ve built.”
The monthly sessions take place on the first Friday of every month from 10am to 12pm. They incorporate the Five Pathways to Nature Connection, a proven approach designed to help individuals foster a deeper relationship with the natural world—one that goes far beyond simply going for a walk in nature. This approach helps participants actively engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way, creating a much more beneficial and lasting connection to the natural world.
“The sessions are really laid-back, with all activities offered by invitation,” explained Barbara. “If you want to cook over the fire, create art in nature, or take part in a mindfulness exercise, that’s all available. But if you’d rather just sit and watch the fire or wander through the trees, that’s completely fine too.”
The sessions are open to all, and bookings can be made via the Better Nature website: www.betternature.org.uk
For patients registered at Frome Medical Practice or Beckington Medical Practice and interested in the six-week programme designed to enhance mental well-being, Barbara and Tom can be contacted at Betternaturecic@gmail.com.
Pictured: A group enjoying a nature-based session
