After a brief introduction to its history, and the many amazing health benefits gained from this increasingly popular pastime, the team had a look through a selection of Sharon's journals along with various books on the art of Nature Journaling.
Looking for a team day out that's good for wellbeing? Why not try Nature Journaling!
On a crisp November morning nine intrepid members of staff from Cambridge University Press and Assessment ventured out to Paxton Pits nature reserve, for a Wild Experience Day with a twist. They were met by our friendly expert Sharon who introduced them to the intriguing world of Nature Journaling.
Credit Sharon Williamson
‘Thank you – Super relaxing’
With the team thoroughly fascinated by the amazing works Sharon has produced over the years, many of them at this point (including myself) were relieved to hear that absolutely no artistic talent is required. Nature Journaling, we learnt, is about being present in the moment and building a connection with the natural world around you. Participants were encouraged to jot down any notes, key words or thoughts that came from what they were looking at along with sketches, outlines or even doodles. Your scene could take in an entire landscape vista or be as focused as a dew drop on a leaf. It soon became clear that there is no right or wrong way to journal and that everybody’s journals are different and unique which is what makes the activity so interesting.
After receiving their own blank journals, and inspired by the many amazing creations that Sharon had produced over the years, any original hesitation was forgotten and the team eagerly made their way to the equipment table collecting an assortment of coloured pencils, crayons, charcoals, watercolours and anything else that took their artistic fancy. Filled with motivation and a new sense of wonder for the natural world the group swiftly proceeded outside, descending on the nature reserve to find their own slice of tranquillity.
‘Thank you for the permission to slow down, observe and feel inspired to draw’
Several peaceful hours flew by, with participants absorbed by the task in hand and doing an excellent job of channelling their inner Bob Ross. With a palpable sense of purpose, the only time the group seemed to stop was to explore the nature reserve to find new creative inspiration, as well as receiving interspersed visits of encouragement and tips from Sharon.
Once the team had reconvened at the education centre for a late lunch, many enthusiastic stories from the morning were exchanged and some were even brave enough to trade journals, intrigued by their colleagues’ creations.
The day was finished with a reflective session with Sharon where the group shared their experiences, which included many participants’ surprise at the sense of calm journaling had brought them and, to the delight of Sharon, several comments that the hobby would be continued. Finally, after a leisurely guided walk around part of the reserve, the team parted ways feeling reset and destressed, ready to tackle the next challenge at the office.
‘Thank you for a relaxing and interesting day’
If your workplace or team would like to get involved with wellbeing activities with The Wildlife Trust BCN please get in touch at corporate@wildlifebcn.org.