Tranquillity envelops the air around Adel Dam nature reserve in Leeds, on a crisp winter morning in January. As I make my way in, I am encompassed by a symphony of birdsong, coupled with the peaceful soundscape of Adel Beck, trickling through the reserve.
My mood instantly feels lighter and brighter, and I inhale a deep breath of fresh Yorkshire air, before embarking on my day in the forest.
Having had flu for my recent Birthday and being cooped up indoors for ten days, this was the perfect wellbeing tonic needed!
I was on my way to Adult Forest School, led by Sarah Shorter, YWT’s Project Officer in the West - because why should kids have all the fun!
The principals of Forest School evolve around looking after yourself, looking after each other and looking after nature. This is magically woven around exploring, discovery, skill learning, playing games, crafting, sharing, building, snacking and nature connection in all kinds of ways that are not always obvious. The sessions are set up over 6 weeks, so you can really get to know a bit of woodland over some time.