Pathways to Nature - High Pavement Learning Centre - Adult Learning

First session at High Pavement House followed by two sessions at Sutton Lawn.

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

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. You will learn about the background and the benefits of being mindful on a walk and how this can help improve your physical and mental wellbeing in simple steps.

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 health benefits of it.

We will discover the science of trees and their mycelium network

We will explore nature poets and talk about viewing local parks and greenspaces with new eyes and finding new things to talk and write about after a walk. Learners may want to write their own poem if they feel inspired.

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

During the course we will learn about the 5 Pathways to Nature Connection and explore ways to undertake these as part of our everyday walks / activities.

This course can provide participants with an introduction to and the chance to explore a new park / greenspace that they have not visited before.

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

1) Our first lesson will be in a classroom so just come along with a notebook and pen

2) Our second 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. We may sit down in the park so if you have a portable (camping) chair, mat or a rug you want to sit on please bring that (something you can carry)

3) Our third lesson will be another 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 portable camping chair, mat or a rug you want to sit on please bring that (something you can carry)