Wellbeing Wander (Autumn Leaves)

For our 2025 Summer/Autumn sessions, we are exploring how nature can support us in tuning into our senses, with a focus on a particular sense each time.

In September, as we meet the transition from summer to autumn, we shall bring our focus to smell and the ways in which we can sense the change in the aromas of autumn - the air we breathe, the sweet smell of fruits and the beginnings of earthy mulch. Alongside this, we shall have a particular focus on autumn leaves, looking at the structure of leaves from different trees, how to identify trees from leaf shapes and of course, noticing the shifts in colour.

Our session will offer poetry and folklore, as well as an invitation to share our combined knowledge of what we may find in nature along our way. We will explore how immersing ourselves, admiring and connecting with nature may enhance our understanding of the ‘other than human’ world and bring meaning to our own lives.

Our Wellbeing Wanders have a mindfulness approach woven in. There will be opportunities for each of us to share something of our own knowledge and the meaning the topic has for us in pairs, small groups or all together (but there is never any pressure or expectation to join in these discussions). There may also be invitations to spend some time alone to reflect.

Fyne Court is a perfect spot to explore, with a variety of habitats on the land. We anticipate a lovely, gentle walk around the woodlands and gardens with a chance to sit, rest and take in the beauty along the way.

There will also be the opportunity to visit the courtyard café to purchase refreshments afterwards.

What to bring and what to wear:

Please bring along your own food and drink.  This can be either something just for yourself, something to share, or a bit of both!

Please come equipped for all that an English early autumn day can bring!  Sturdy footwear and rain coat/sun hat/sunscreen are advised, plus a drink and snack if you wish.  

Please also see https://www.quantockhills.com/attending-an-event for more useful tips.

Maximum number in group – 10

For enquiries please contact us at quantockhills@somerset.gov.uk  

Meeting in the courtyard at Fyne Court (just in front of the café)

Grid reference - ST 222320 (Grid Reference Finder | OS Map)

What 3 Words - ///needed.trio.faster (what3words /// The simplest way to talk about location)

A little bit about Joanna:

Joanna has a background in nature connection projects and promoting good mental health.

She spent 3 years working with the Somerset Wildlife Trust (SWT) as the Quantock Hills Project Officer for the highly successful Somerset Nature Connection Project, a collaboration between the National Landscape and SWT.

She has competed Bristol-based Natural Academy’s Advanced Pathway in Ecotherapy and Eco Depth Practice.

Joanna is a mother and grandmother who loves wild foraging and poetry.