Year 5 have been taking part on ‘Bikeability ‘sessions this week, so Lilac Class decided to all ride to the woods and back.
At St Mary’s we recognise the importance of supporting our mental health.
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week , which this year has a focus on nature. Research has shown that spending time in nature is good for us for lots of reasons.
Nature is so central to our psychological and emotional health, that it’s almost impossible to realise good mental health for all without a greater connection to the natural world.
Some of the ways Lilac Class have connected with nature this week are:
- Spending 3 minutes on their own ‘sit spots’ in the woods to have a quiet time to be quiet and just ‘be’
- Use penknives to peel sticks and create arrows
- Creating a bird and nest out of clay and found natural resources
- finding insects and small bugs in the new leaves
The impact of Forest School can be seen through the skills, tools used, art and craft activities, observations and knowledge of the fruit, plants trees in relation to the seasons and the skills involved in learning how to play Forest School games.
‘Fresh air and exercise’ has long been recommended as a way for many to feel better, physically and mentally.
Now evidence shows us that the quality of our relationship with nature is part of the reason for its positive impact on our wellbeing. Researchers use the term “connectedness” to describe the ideal relationship. Connectedness refers to the way we relate to nature and experience nature. A strong connection with nature means feeling a close relationship or an emotional attachment to our natural surroundings.
So today Lilac Class have building a sense of wonder in recognition of their connection to the woods they know and love to explore. And they are ensuring that they are connecting with nature in a way that protects and preserves their mental health.
