Pathways to Nature - Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library and Learning Centre - Adult Learning

Immerse yourself in nature whilst walking and learn about the science and health benefits whilst exploring green space in your local area. The course will give you an introduction to “Forest Bathing” – a recognised method of nature connection activities that can be undertaken in parks and woodlands.

The first session will take place at Kirkby in Ashfield Library, followed by the second and third sessions taking place at Portland Park, Kirkby in Ashfield.

Learn about the benefits of being mindful and how this can help improve your physical and mental wellbeing in simple steps on 2 gentle walks.

This course will introduce you to a park/green space you may not have visited before, through two guided walks.

1) Our first lesson will be at Kirkby Library

2) Our second lesson and third lesson will be an outside walk, please prepare yourself for a walk on uneven ground in any weather (so wear sturdy footwear and wear layers of clothing, a hat and a waterproof coat).

Bring a notepad and pen if you can. We may sit down in the park so if you have a mat or a rug you want to sit on please bring that (something you can carry)

• During this course we will learn about the Japanese tradition of Forest Bathing (immersing ourselves in nature whilst on a walk) and learn about the science behind it and health benefits.

• We will explore nature poets and learn how to view local parks and greenspaces with fresh eyes, finding new things to talk and write about after a walk.

• Participants will be taught about nature poets and may want to write their own poem if they feel inspired.

• We will learn how to find nature’s “invitations” (ways to explore nature on a walk) and how to use these to reduce anxiety and improve our mental wellbeing.

By the end of the course participants will have been introduced to and had the chance to explore a park / greenspace they may have not visited before or to see a site they’re familiar with in a different light.

After undertaking this course you will:

• Feel more confident walking with nature in your local greenspace and experiment in ways to expand your own nature connection walks in future

• Have learnt about the 5 Pathways to Nature Connection

• Develop an awareness and understanding of the Japanese tradition of Forest Bathing / immersion

• Have learnt about the science of trees (learn about organic compounds that trees release that benefit humans)

• Have been introduced to nature poetry and use descriptive language to create your own poem

• Have undertaken 2 guided walks in a park/woodland setting

What you will need to bring/wear to the course:

• Sturdy footwear

• Wear layers of clothing, a hat and a waterproof coat

• Notepad and pen.

• Mat or a rug (something you can carry)