Wellbeing Wander (Trees)

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 July we shall truly be in high summer! We shall bring our focus to the ways in which we can ‘feel and touch’ summer. As well as the air we breathe, summer sunshine on our skin and the numerous sensory delights of the season, we shall have a particular focus on the theme of trees. We will explore the feel of the different barks, the shade of trees in full leaf and all the ways in which we may feel the presence of trees.

Our session will offer poetry and folklore, as well as an invitation to share our combined knowledge of the trees we find along our way. We will explore how immersing ourselves admiring, and connecting with trees 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. There will also be the opportunity to visit the courtyard café to purchase refreshments afterwards.

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

What to wear/bring:

Please come equipped for all that an English summer 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.