Event Description

This nature-based wellbeing session combines a guided nature immersion with an introduction to nature journaling.

What happens during our session?

Suitable for beginners, this two-hour session is designed to be present and mindful, starting with a guided sensory exploration, a brief wander taking in the gardens and then capturing some of the experience on the page through either writing, drawing or both. All supplies plus light refreshments are provided.

Your guide, Kathleen, is an expert in the benefits of time in nature. Kathleen will suggest different activities to engage each of your senses and to sink into some of the details of our beautiful environment. We will select some loose treasures and commence our introduction to nature journaling. Kathleen will share ideas and suggestions, examples and templates, paper and art supplies so you can create your own nature journal page. Some simple introductory exercises will get us started and then you can select exactly what you would like to do. If you prefer, your guide can always offer suggestions for you to consider.

Who is this session for?

This session is for you if you are interested in ways of being more mindful in your day, wanting to explore a nature immersive experience or are interested in an introduction to nature journaling. At the end of the session, you can expect to feel more connected to nature and yourself, feel more creative and to have some introductory skills to explore different ways of nature journaling. You will take home the nature journal pages from the session, and new skills to be more mindful during your day.

All materials are supplied, and no experience is necessary. Even if you think you are not artistic or creative, this session is for you and you are very welcome. For those who have some art supplies, please feel free to bring them along (carrying them during the gentle walk).

This event will have a maximum of 12 participants, aged 15 years and over.

What happens during our session?

This two-hour session is designed to be present and mindful, starting with a guided sensory exploration during a wander in nature and then capturing some of the experience on the page through either writing, drawing or both.

The session begins with a brief introduction to the benefits of nature, followed by a guided mindful mediation and wander. Your guide Kathleen will suggest different activities to engage each of your senses and to sink into some of the details of our beautiful environment. We will select some loose treasures and commence our introduction to nature journaling. Kathleen will share ideas and suggestions, examples and templates, paper and art supplies so you can create your own nature journal page. Some simple introductory exercises will get us started and then you can select exactly what you would like to do. If you prefer, your guide can always offer suggestions for you to consider.

Accessibility

The gravel path is mainly flat suiting all fitness levels, including those using wheelie frames or assisted in wheelchairs. Journaling may require sitting on the ground. Please get in touch with any queries about the accessibility so we can ensure you fully enjoy the session.

What are the benefits of time in nature?

There are many benefits of spending time in nature. You may have already felt some like feeling more relaxed, calmer or happier. Creating art and nature journaling also helps us to slow down and connect with nature. Benefits of time in nature are well-established in the international, scientific literature.

Benefits for adults include

reducing stress hormone (cortisol) levels
reducing blood pressure, pulse and heart rate
improving immunity
improving mood and emotions such as feeling happy or calm
improved attention, working memory, mental flexibility, creativity
reducing feelings of stress, worries and sadness.

What to wear and bring

Wear comfortable clothing, appropriate for the weather and for being outdoors in nature. We walk slowly so an extra layer to stay warm may be needed. Comfortable pants, layers work best, and perhaps a rainproof outer layer or umbrella, as we continue in light rain. We recommend that you wear a sunhat as we can still get burnt on glary, overcast days.
Participants should be able to walk at a slow pace over various terrain and sit on the ground for short periods. We recommend wearing closed, sturdy shoes.
Carry a small day pack and bring water, snacks and personal medications.
Bring any preferred art supplies – paper, pencils, watercolours.
Bring your curiosity, open mind and heart.

About your guide

Dr Kathleen Bagot is the founder of Nothing Like Nature. With a PhD in Environmental Psychology, Kathleen understands how our environments affect the way we think, feel and behave. She specialises in the benefits of time in nature, for adults and children. Kathleen is also a certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide (trained with the Institute of Forest Therapy, certified by the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance; INFTA) and a Parks Victoria Licenced Tour Operator. She can guide you on a forest therapy walk or nature immersion, where you will experience the benefits of spending time in nature mindfully.

Bookings are essential as spaces are limited. Exact meeting point will be provided shortly after booking.

For our full Terms and Conditions, or for more details, see our Useful Information and FAQs on our website or get in touch with Kathleen (email - nothinglikenature@pm.me)