Winter Nature Connection, Woods Mill (08/03/25)

Tutor: Alistair Duncan

In winter, it can seem that all activity has ceased. Everything around us appears to have gone to ground, is resting or hiding. But the winter “pause” can allow us to experience a whole world of subtlety in the natural world. The rich polarities of warmth and coldness, dryness and moisture, movement and stillness, the complex and varied canvas of delicate sounds and colours. Subtleties that can be overshadowed in the busy vibrancy of spring and summer and autumn. 

In this workshop, we will learn how to become more sensitive to the subtle qualities of everything around us. We will discover ways of refining our attention to the smallest activities and happenings in the wood. And especially, we will gain a fresh awareness of the wonderful air that we, and all creatures, live and breathe and move in.

This day is a great compliment to the other workshops offered by the Trust which focus more on the identification and habits of the plants and creatures of our Sussex landscape.

It’s also a rare opportunity to spend a day in the enchanting Hoe Wood that is not normally accessible to the public.

You will:

- learn a number of simple practices that will deepen your sensitivity to the natural world around you

- spend guided time on your own, learning to pay attention to the richness in everything around you

- take time in the group for reflection and discussion of your experiences

- learn some background behind the practices and how to apply them in your life

- possibly discover the beginnings of a different perspective on the human place in the natural world

Venue: Woods Mill, Henfield, West Sussex BN5 9SD

https://sussexwildlifetrust.org.uk/visit/woods-mill

What to bring: Packed lunch, suitable clothing for weather. Wear lots of warm clothes, you will be moving around but very slowly! Best to bring too much than get cold or wet.

Other information: Camp fire in the woods, hot drinks and biscuits / fruit available. Free parking. Public toilets can be found in the car park.

Public transport: Compass Bus 100 Burgess Hill-Pulborough stops outside Woods Mill Monday – Saturday. No Sunday Service.

Visit http://www.compass-travel.co.uk for timetable.

Accessibility: Some walking in woods and meadows – uneven ground. Approx 2km.