Why do we offer activities in the outdoors?

In a world where time outdoors is rapidly decreasing, this is of great importance to the health, resilience and well-being of people.

Activities conducted in natural or outdoor settings are tailored to individual goals, preferences, support needs, risk assessments and participant capacity, while promoting dignity, choice, inclusion and meaningful engagement within the community.

Connect & Explore was founded with the vision to create a model of care that combines the best aspects of outdoor education, experiential and embodied learning. Connect & Explore’s unique suite of nature-connected programs are based on decades of lived experience.

  • Many of the people we work with are battling stigmas around mental illness and disabilities and looking for their place to belong in the community. We use activities in nature as a tool to help us engage and inspire participants whilst equipping them with skills and self confidence in their own capabilities.

    Spending time in natural environments can provide significant benefits for peoples overall wellbeing, emotional regulation, physical health and social participation. Access to outdoor and community-based environments can support reduced stress, improved mood, increased confidence, sensory regulation, communication, social engagement and greater participation in daily life activities.

    Participation in nature-based and outdoor activities can also promote physical movement, independence, problem-solving, develop resilience and community inclusion in a safe and supportive environment.

    Another benefit is the exposure and connection to nature that we help people develop which will serve them long into adulthood. Studies have shown that exposure to nature can improve attention span, creativity, mental health, mood and physical wellbeing.

What is Breathwork

Breathwork is a term that encompasses a range of breathing exercises designed to enhance physical, spiritual and mental health. It is used in yoga, tai chi, qigong and even psychotherapy to promote healing, health and self-awareness. Breathwork therapy has become increasingly popular since the 1970s and is thought to help those suffering from chronic pain, anxiety, PTSD, grief and depression.

 

Breathwork is believed to clear the lungs, thereby improving lung capacity and respiration. It is also thought to oxygenate the blood, thereby energizing and healing the body's cells. Mentally, breathwork promotes focus and concentration.

  • Mindfulness requires us to be aware of what's around us and how our bodies feel. Meditation is a practice that reels in our thoughts to calm the mind. These two terms are similar because they both aim to help our well-being, but while one encourages awareness, the other works to create singular thoughts.

  • Micro moments throughout the session you will experientially be guided through breathwork and meditation practices. These are practical, engaging and fun tools that you can continue using in your life to create more wellness, focus, joy, resilience, love and healing. These micro moments can range from 1min-30min depending on the focus and situation.

    Can including walking, stillness, breathing, tapping our bodies, squeezing, looking, smelling just to name a few.

    Weaved throughout the sessions are education and experiential learning around nutrition, intention setting and skill building in the areas of life you desire to focus on.

  • It is normal to have questions and thoughts pop up when saying yes to something new and unknown. I will always check in with you to ensure you feel safe and supported. We will pick spots in nature that feel safe and secure to try these practices. The beauty of these tools is that they are fun and accessible for any age, level or ability.

    P.S. I was nervous and doubtful these practices worked when I first tried, then I experienced the life changing benefits. Its something you need to experience for yourself, so dont believe me and try for yourself.