What are the Benefits of a Woodland Wellbeing Session?
Rachel from the Forest of Avon Trust explains.
The Forest of Avon Trust has been running a new Woodland Wellbeing group for people with dementia and those who support them in South Gloucestershire. We’re supported by an Adorno companion, Susanne, who attends the fortnightly group which meets in Brimsham Park, Yate. Susanne has given her enthusiastic support to sessions and helps with activities as well as the all-important woodland-cuppa!
During sessions we encourage people to notice details in nature, seasonal change and experience sensory stimulation to help them enjoy being in the moment and connect with the natural world.
So far we have provided opportunities for people to: do simple green woodworking to make, and then play, Smite (a bit like skittles); cook foraged food on a fire; use special microphones as part of University of Gloucestershire’s research into natural sounds; make natural stained glass windows and their own wooden name-badges amongst other things. People are of course welcome to take part in sessions in their own way and might prefer to simply enjoy each other’s company, have a go in the woodland hammock and explore Brimsham Park.
Please join us at our Adorno Carers Support Forum on Wednesday 21st September at The
Greenfield Centre, Winterbourne, BS36 1NJ To book a space, email: bookings@adornocomm unitydaycentre.co.uk
There is a growing body of research which looks specifically at the impact of spending time in nature for people with dementia and how this benefits both physical and mental health. Specific benefits include: improved sleep, increased motivation and a decrease in agitation.
The Woodland Wellbeing group focuses on supporting both the person with dementia and the person who supports them, whether that’s a partner, friend, family member or other carer, and we hope that everyone benefits.
The project builds on five years successful delivery of two commissioned dementia wellbeing groups in Bristol. The South Gloucestershire group has proved popular and we are at full capacity! We would love to continue the project next year and are currently looking for funding to do so.
If you are interested in attending the sessions, please email: rachel.tomlinson@forestofavontrust.org or call on: 07855560865.
Photo Credit: Rich McD
