In partnership with Woking Mind, we completed our first Breathing Space course; a chance to explore mindfulness and wellbeing in a natural setting. The course was designed to benefit members of our local community who were experiencing mild to moderate anxiety and/or depression. 

The value of nature to our wellbeing is at the core of our charity, so we were delighted to be able to offer our peaceful ancient woodlands, providing the chance to examine and escape everyday anxiety. Over seven weeks, the small group were able to talk, enjoy the outdoors and consider ideas for the conservation of this very special space.   

Talking round a fire provided participants with an unusual and valuable way to address concerns in a tranquil and supported setting, as one participant shared with us:

“Combining mental wellbeing with nature, especially at West Horsley Place, is really inspirational and I hope you are able to run many more programmes in the future.”

These courses are supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, and we’re planning the next one in June, this time particularly aimed at people aged 18-25. We are grateful to National Lottery players for enabling projects like this to take place. 

“Go with the flow and wrap up warm - be prepared to try something different.”