This group will bring together two powerful approaches to wellbeing and ageing well. The group is for those who have an interest in mindfulness or practice it, and who wish to explore deepening their enjoyment of nature.

Firstly, it will build on the popular u3a Mindfulness and Meditation Learning Events, which utilise the framework of the Five Ways to Wellbeing: Notice, Connect, Be Active, Give and Keep Learning. We will add Joy and Saving the Planet to create a seven-element framework.

Secondly, it will take the principle of connecting with nature to explore the many benefits of taking mindfulness not just into everyday life, but also into connecting with nature.

In each session, the group will explore mindfulness and nature through the lens of one of the seven elements. This will involve mindfulness practices and mindful movement with a nature theme, presentations on specific topics and reflection and discussion in groups to learn together. The group is open to all abilities, including those who will be new to mindfulness or have mobility issues. It will encourage access to nature, whether it be a window view from your home, a garden, a park or the countryside.

Sessions will include sources such as books, poetry, music and art and introduce the techniques of mindful photography. Participants will be encouraged to share their own knowledge and experiences. We will also explore how these topics relate to practices such as Forest Bathing, Sense Foraging and Green Wisdom.

For more information, please contact Mike through this group's entry in the Beacon Members' Portal. All enquiries are welcome.

The photo is by the group leader. He took it on a favourite walk around the field of Great Longstone in the Peak District.