Wildlife is all around us, even in the city. From red kites circling above us to weeds growing through cracks in the pavement, it’s there if we take time to notice. As city-dwellers, it’s not always easy to carve out time for a swim in the ocean or hike a distant mountain range. But in any given moment, it’s possible to give ourselves little of that wild feeling by simply focusing on the plants, creatures and natural forces we share urban spaces with.

Connecting with nature can reduce stress, improve focus, support self-reflection and inspire creative thinking. It can also remind us of our responsibility to care for the world around us. Making the most of the long summer evening, we’ll spend at least half of our time in Woodhouse Square, just opposite Swarthmore.

You’ll be invited to try a range of mindfulness activities that connect you to the natural world, and reflect on your relationship to the places you inhabit day-to-day.

Then we’ll come back inside for a chance to respond to what you experienced, either creatively through writing or drawing or by simply discussing what you discovered. You’ll come away with a ‘toolbox’ of activities to try in daily life, and some suggestions for how to build a habit of nature connection to support your wellbeing and/or creative practice. This workshop is open to anyone, but may be especially relevant for those looking for a restorative practice to support creative or caring roles.

Please come dressed for the weather on the day. We won’t be deterred by a bit of rain or wind.

Pens, pencils and paper will be provided, but if you have a different medium you’d like to work in, please feel free to bring your tools along.