wilder being
nature. arts. wellbeing.
This is a dedicated page to images, activities, reflections and videos. In nature inspiration can be found everywhere. I am always fascinated by the polarities found out walking in nature.... still, moving, quiet or loud, small, large, dark or light. Using our senses and a quiet mind we can tune in and immerse ourselves in the unique beauty in our surroundings. Focusing with intent enables us to be a witness to the stories unfolding in the woods, the birth and death in the living world and tales of survival and growth.
Colour pallete collection in Gisburn Forest.
On our forest bathing practitioner training we were asked to venture into the woods to find colours. The results are seen here in a spectrum of coloured objects. The most fascinating aspect of this exercise was in experiencing the search for colour. Browns had a diverse range of shades, purples surprised us and silvers shone.
Humus !! Its a wonderful thing! Not the type we dip carrots in !! but the organic components of soil, the debris of leaves, fungi and decomposing plant materials. Although its full of dead matter, its also full of life as micro organisms and microbes thrive in it. Did you know it`s chemical components can help your brain release more serotonin? Read here for info https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/soil-fertilizers/antidepressant-microbes-soil.htm
Listening to the river at Hardcastle Crags nature reserve near Hebden Bridge. There are so many rhythms and notes made by the water, a constant rushing, the crashing as water hits stone, the slower songs as water whirls into a pool. Listening close to the orchestra of sounds reveals layers of sounds that our minds can sit within.
Ferns are some of the oldest plant forms on Earth. Fossils of ferns have been found all over the world. They are resilient and prolific, with some species living to 100 years. The koru (Māori for '"loop or coil"') is a spiral shape based on the appearance of a new unfurling silver fern frond. It is an integral symbol in Māori art, carving and tattooing, where it symbolises new life, growth, and strength.
Textures. Taking a moment to zoom into tree bark we are presented with an array of differing textures. It presents a perfect subject for micro photography. The photos here are of Oak, Scots Pine and Silver Birch. Its amazing how bark differs from species to species and even tree to tree. It would be an interesting exercise to guess the tree blindfolded by feeling the bumps, scars and smoothness of the bark. Bark itself holds many micro worlds of moss and fungi.
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Stillness. During our winter walk and forest bathing at Woodbank Park in Stockport we took the time to connect to stillness in the woodland. Although it was damp and cold we took benefit from just sitting amongst the trees absorbing and connecting to their stillness while they rest in winter. A valuable practice to help cultivate a still mind and body.
Early morning frosty dew caught on gorses tells stories about the spiders nightly adventures. Stockport Tiviot Dale