nega zemlje in duha
Whispers of Nature
11-19.09.2024, Smolnik, Pohorje, Slovenia
In September, the Association of nurturing the Earth and Spirit (and other partners) organized a 10-day training for youth workers in beutiful Slovenian Pohorje (Smolnok). The main topic werenature and different nature based pedagogical approaches, such aseeco-psychology, adventure pedagogy, using creative art media and embodiment, community work, experiential learning through nature/art fordevelopingvarious strengths and qualities. Journeys in the forest, listening to the forest creatures, movement, music and artistic expression were part of our everyday life. Dedicated time spent in nature, fire, dance, practicing genuine communication and authentic relating, and expressingour creativity, awakened the most unknown, sleepy corners in us. We embarked on a path of inner understanding and connection with the parts within us, exploring our inner qualities and archetypes that could support and inspire us, while on the other hand confronted us also with our shadow and weak side. We got to know each of these qualities or archetypes first through the theoretical part of map of wholeness and then through experiential learning. Through thus practice wealso researchedand learnedhow we can build/support capacities in youth with the use of nature and creative media, that are important to build their resilience in nowadays society, and help them to be stronger in times of crisis (personal or global). Being seen, understood, supported and met on your journey is a gift that nature gives us and we can feel it with each other at the same time.
Testimonials
And what did we experience and learn?
»"I enjoyed the workshops connecting me to myself and also to other members of the community. I loved the experiential content where I could feel more than talk and be rather emotional than rational. I think this was for me the essence of the whole training. I loved the community and being in beautiful nature in all kinds of weather. "«
»"I experienced this training course as intense and so impactful in the best way. Going into it without expectations, these 10 days left me with a lot of knowledge, insight and experience that I greatly value."«
»"I felt very well in this program, it was inspiring, safe, full of experiences. The connection with nature helped a lot in my own journey of self-knowledge. During this journey I learned a deeper connection with myself through nature and various artistic tools."«
»"The experience was great for me. I have already incorporated some breathing practices into my life. When walking my dog, I try not to take my phone with me, and at work, I tell my colleagues to slow down if what they're sharing with me feels too intense. I wrote a project for the school inspired by this training, where I integrated work on social skills, but with nature as the setting for practicing those skills.
The most important lesson for me is that things can be done without rushing and how important it is to stop and take a moment for yourself. I’ve also learned that other people's processes don’t have to affect my mood and/or confidence.«
