1 May 2020
Connecting to nature isn’t usually something we do via a laptop screen. During lockdown however, we’ve all had to adapt quickly and find different ways of getting the things we need for our health and wellbeing. It hasn’t been possible for Coed Lleol (Small Woods Wales) to keep running our wide range of wellbeing activities in woodlands, helping people all over Wales to connect to nature. Instead, we’ve gone online, offering support in a number of new ways.
Our Online Nature Sessions are happening live every weekday on Zoom. Each session has a different theme, from Foraging to Mindfulness. They’re free and aimed at people with health and wellbeing needs in Wales.
We’ve launched a new YouTube channel to share weekly nature videos made by our expert Woodland Leaders and Mentors. In our first video you can learn how to make tasty Nettle Crisps. Be sure to subscribe to our channel so you don’t miss anything.
On our Facebook, Instagram and Twitter pages we’re sharing daily #NatureFix posts – photos of trees and plants from around Machynlleth where our Publicity Coordinator takes her daily walks. This has been especially appreciated by people living in urban areas who haven’t been able to get out into nature during lockdown. Follow us on social media to get your daily nature fix.
Our local project groups across Wales have moved outdoor nature sessions online, meeting together virtually for inspiring nature activities and discussions. Contact a Woodland Mentor in your area to join us.
We’ve been offering one-to-one Nature Chats by phone to our existing participants who are struggling with feelings of isolation and loneliness during this time
We’ve also been supporting a volunteer group in Mid Wales called Heart Mind Body to get the word out about their free online wellbeing activities (including yoga, singing and chi gong).
We all miss being in the woods together, but in the meantime we’ll keep working on these alternative ways of helping you connect to nature.
For more information email Mim ([email protected]) or get in touch on social media.
