On 18th May, as part of the GreenHouse Project, a group of SHP clients and staff met in a beautiful clearing at OrganicLea, on the edge of Epping Forest.

After plenty of smiles, a trip to the pond and vineyard, a cup of tea and a go on the woodland swing for some, we gathered to begin the day.

We sat in a circle under the oak trees for an introduction to Ecopsychology from Jane Glenzinska, Psychologist and Ecopsychology Course Leader. She talked about the benefits of nature including the power of natural scents, how nature can change our perspective and how the soil has natural anti-depressants in it. I then introduced the group to the Ecopsychology exercise – a ‘sit spot’; the invitation to take time in nature alone to think peacefully. The invitation this time was to think about 3 areas of personal growth and then return to plant 3 sunflower seeds in your own pot and share your thoughts, if you felt comfortable, with the group.

I felt this was a beautiful moment – with SHP residents from across London, staff and volunteers sharing together in this beautiful setting. One resident, Moon, reflected after the day that she enjoyed: ‘staying out and no one...telling me who I am...connecting together, people were nice...the connecting stories...reconnecting with my roots.’

We then enjoyed a local, organic shared lunch with the OrganicLea community of food growers. A chance to relax and meet some new people.

In the afternoon, head grower Gary led us in a growing activity, planting ‘green manures’, small clover plants which add natural nutrition to the soil, to keep it healthy. Everyone busied themselves, planting and chatting and we didn’t miss the opportunity to admire a beautiful green Rose Chafer beetle!

GreenHouse participant Ayesha shared: “I had a great day out and really enjoyed a day that we could talk about feelings and be in a place that doesn't seem to be in London. I liked the sit spot activity and to think about how grateful I am to be involved with activities that connect me to nature.”

We’re already planning the next Reflecting in Nature Day for July 27th. Participant Moon will be bringing her woodland skills to help facilitate a dream catcher making workshop and we would love any new ideas of things to bring to the next day. Please let us know if you want to take part.

A big thank you to all of the wonderful staff and our volunteer Carolin who helped make the day so special – some words here from Erin, our Digital, Strategy and Partnerships Manager who supported on the day:

"It was a wonderful day out in nature. Opportunities and spaces like the day out at OrganicLea are vital for SHP service users. It creates a safe space for participants to relax, be present and take ownership of their relationship with nature and being outdoors. You can see the immediate positive impact spending time in nature has on everyone's mental health and a further curiosity of nature flourishes."