As a volunteer wellbeing mentor for Kent Wildlife Trust, I support groups to pause, breathe and experience the outdoors in a more intentional way.
The Wilder Wellbeing sessions create a calm, accessible space for people to explore nature connection at their own pace. It’s a privilege to guide others as they discover how grounding, restorative and energising time in nature can be.
Participants leave not only refreshed, but with a practical set of techniques they can use every day — simple tools that help build resilience, reduce stress and strengthen their relationship with the nature on their doorstep.
I also volunteer with the forest bathing sessions at the beautiful Hothfield Heathlands Nature Reserve in Ashford. Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, forest bathing is a simple, guided way to slow down and reconnect with nature through all five senses. It’s about stepping away from the noise, noticing small details and giving your mind space to reset.
Kent Wildlife Trust’s Wilder Wellbeing programme is designed to help people experience the proven benefits of spending time outdoors, including:
If you’re interested in nature‑based wellbeing, want to move more, or would like support through coaching to build healthier habits, I’d love to hear from you. Together we can create simple, sustainable ways to bring more calm, clarity and connection into your everyday life.
Get in touch if you’re curious about nature connection on your doorstep. One small change really can make a meaningful difference.
Author: Maria Callow, founder of alexandrapatrick, marketing consultant, accredited coach.