Nature connection (nature)

The assignment addresses the following competencies: calmness, relaxation, awareness, mindfulness

In the fast-paced and noisy world around us, exercises are needed to regain silence and calm. These activities can help young people feel better.
The facilitator can invent a sign (could be a bird sound) – to get the people back, after wandering around in the forest

Nature, Blind folds, rope, extra person (helps on the end of the rope / or sign with extra info)

120’

Procedure/steps

The first part of the exercise helps people to become more aware about the surroundings and theirselves.
● Breathing – the facilitator asks the participants to take 3 deep breaths – in through the nose – out through the mouth – and to imagine their feet putting down roots that go deep into the earth.
● Sense meditation – the facilitator asks the group to focus on the surrounding sounds: the sound closest, the sound farthest away, the sound coming from the left, the sound coming from the right, and so on.
● Barefoot walk – participants walk barefoot, taking care not to make any noise.
● Owl sight – participants are asked to put their arms out in front and wiggle their fingers, then slowly move their arms to their sides, always looking ahead of themselves-this is a useful way to stretch the limbs and relax the body.
NOW participants see, hear, and feel a lot more than in the beginning!
● Leading blind: Pairs are created. One of the pair is blindfolded. The companion takes the blind man to a place, takes a photograph, and brings him back to the starting point. The blind man has to find the place.
● Ropewalk: 30’ depending on the size of the group
A rope is placed between trees for the exercise, which participants can follow blindly. Each person should keep a slow pace especially when approaching someone else. At the end of the blind walk, there will be a sign that says, “Find a spot and listen to the forest. When you hear the call, return to the meeting point.”
● Reflexion

Evaluation/Final debriefing

At the end of the activity, it is important to find time for a moment of reflection during which participants can express what they have experienced.