A new course in
South Somerset offers people a way to improve their mental health by spending time in nature. Step into Nature is an eight-week programme designed to help people use outdoor experiences to support their mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing.
The course is organised and run by experienced outdoor practitioners from The Balsam Centre in Wincanton. Sessions take place at Moldrams Ground Nature Reserve in Pen Selwood, with transport provided from The Balsam Centre.
Who Can Join?
The course is open to anyone, regardless of previous outdoor experience. Course leader Nick Truman explains, “People who’ve come on previous courses say they find it both peaceful and motivating. The emphasis is on helping you to get away from it all, at a slower pace than usual, connecting with the natural world, learning new outdoor skills, and meeting new people, all within a safe space. You could say it’s a kind of Forest School for adults.”
What the Course Offers
Step into Nature is based on the 5 Pathways to Nature Connection, a framework developed by the University of Derby to help people build a closer relationship with the natural world. Participants will explore and appreciate their surroundings, develop outdoor skills, and learn techniques to support emotional wellbeing.
The programme also includes opportunities to enjoy practical outdoor activities that may be useful when applying for jobs or voluntary positions, as well as opportunities to contribute to wildlife surveys and gather information on species such as dragonflies and solitary bees for specialist conservation groups.
Outdoor practitioner Kate Hathway says, “People are sometimes put off attending courses like this as they think they need to be the ‘outdoorsy’ type, but that’s really not the case. In many ways, we do similar sorts of crafts around the fire to those you might do in front of the TV in the evening, but using natural materials. Nick and I are here to make sure everyone feels comfortable. We have a shelter in case of wet weather, and there’s lots of mutual support from the other participants.”
How to Sign Up
Step into Nature runs on Mondays from 10.30 am to 2.45 pm each session. The course is free to attend, but spaces are limited.
To book a place, contact The Balsam Centre at Info@balsamcentre.org.uk or call 01963 31842. More information is available at www.balsamcentre.org.uk/step-into-nature.