Relax, restore and revitalise in the woods

Time spent outdoors in nature has been proven to deliver health and wellbeing benefits, boosting the immune system, releasing positive emotions and helping us to find meaning and purpose. Connecting with nature can also reduce stress, improve sleep and promote the desire to nurture and conserve the environment with which you are connected.

Discovering the beauty of woodlands and building relationships

YDMT’s Woodland Wellbeing programme is rooted in our aim to support people to connect with nature and applies the fundamental principles of Mind’s Five Ways to Wellbeing and the University of Derby’s Nature Connectedness, through nature-based practice. Over a six-week period, participants discover the beauty of various local woodlands whilst building relationships and a sense of community through activities such as shelter building, whittling and campfire cooking.

Sessions also focus on the restorative nature of the woodland through peaceful and reflective activities such as natural mindfulness, swinging in hammocks and natural art. Taking part in these immersive experiences in nature can require deep focus and patience, giving a safe space to step away from the anxieties of daily life and presenting a more present, mindful way of being.

Learning new skills and improving health

Over the past four years the programme has supported close to 100 vulnerable individuals to connect with their peers, learn new skills and
improve their physical and mental health.

This year we are working in partnership with NEESIE, a charity facilitating prosperity for single mums, and Step 2, a grassroots charity offering
counselling and sexual health support to young people, both based in Bradford. Whether it’s being encouraged to walk slowly through a woodland with a sense of curiosity, concentrating on the effects on all of our senses, or putting their new natural fire lighting techniques
into practice to make a brew on the campfire, each session is tailored to meet the needs of the group, building confidence and self-esteem,
improving energy levels and providing a breath of fresh air!

Learn more about our outreach project - People and the Dales and how we're helping to tackle the barriers that prevent people from accessing and enjoying the countryside, and make everyone feel welcome.