Ideas of John Milton

Having studied with the Nature Academy, our work includes some of the experiences talked about in this video

Sunset on Walney

Sunset, Walney Island

Walney Island, one of the largest islands on the UK coast, was formed during the last ice age. During the late 1800's it went through a period of development as the Vickers shipyard in nearby Barrow in Furness grew. Today it is an area where the Government's indices of deprivation show it to be one of the least healthy places in the country.

Yet this is an island with fantastic beaches which host national and international kite and windsurfing competitions. An island with two large nature reserves, one managed by the Cumbria Wildlife Trust, the other the RSPB and Natural England. An island with a strong community, new schools, farmland and a golf course.

But this is also an area with a history of industrial work and one where many retired workers live, whether in terraced and semi-detached homes or in one of the many residential caravan and prefabricated home sites across the island. Many residents take regular walks, using the extensive footpaths and tracks which are traffic free. So while the statistics may reflect ill health. This may be related to working lives rather than current activity.

Appreciating the stunning views across the Irish Sea or over the mountains of the Lake District, walking, observing the many seals, seabirds, waders and other wildlife are all integral to a mindful approach to maintaining health and improving wellbeing. Reflect on your own engagement with nature, do you appreciate the sunset, the smell of a seabreeze, the sound of grass swaying in the wind? If so then try to find more sense connections and use them as part of your daily routine.

waking at night

Tarn Haws by day

Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation, Darkness stirs and wakes imagination,
Silently the senses abandon their defences, Slowly, gently, night unfurls its splendour. Wait, Stop! This isn’t an opening verse, well it is really, one from Phantom of the Opera, but it’s true night time does wake our imagination, we go into survival mode, pausing at sounds, wondering what just fluttered past, a bird, a bat, a .....? But what if we let go, abandon our defences, then what? What really comes to life? Is it just our imagination or is there a whole world out there, one we rarely see. That acre of woodland contains more life than the population of the town we live in, the nearby city, maybe even the whole country. Yet sometimes because we can’t see it, we forget, and when we forget we stop caring.

So abandon your defences, waken your imagination and come with me as the woodland unfurls its night time splendour.

The stile squeaks as we pass through, immediately the dog’s ears go up, its nose sniffing the air, straining against its leash. Turn off the torch, let your eyes settle into the darkness, yours ears prick as the rabbits rustle through the leaves to their holes. An owl hoots, adding to the mystery, we walk slowly forward, anxious not to slip. Don’t just put your foot down, lift it, lower it, gently feeling underfoot before committing your weight, anxious not to crush the shell of the snail crossing in front of us, or snap the twig alerting others of our presence.

Notice the smells, the damp grass, the bark, and something stronger, here near the hole in the hedge. Scratch marks coming through, blades of grass flattened where the badger passed. Then a snort, we stop, terrifyingly still, what is it? The badger coming back? But there’s more, rubbing, scratching against a tree. We move forward, steps moving away. Touching the bark we find hairs caught in the rough surface. At the next tree a long strip of bark pulled away, silver and smooth on one side and brown and rough on the other, pulled by the deer rubbing its antlers and then its itchy back against the tree. Hands flat on the trunk an insect runs over our fingers. Each time we move worms come to the surface attracted by the dew we knock off the grass.

Fluttering nearby, if we had a bat detector we’d know just what it was. There are lots of bats here in this wood, the pipistrelle helping us against the midges, eating thousands every night, while the long eared bat sits waiting for the sound of the ladybird on the flower stem, the ‘water bat’ or daubenton catches insects on the surface of the pond while the clever ‘natterer” waits for the fly to be caught in the spider’s web and eats them both!

All this happening around us and yet we can only feel it, hear it, understand it’s presence. If only we can remember it during the day, we might watch where we walk, what we leave behind, no litter only footprints, no damage, only memories.

Mindfulness in Nature - slow works

Great how the changing seasons makes things stand out

Yesterday having spent too long staring at a computer screen reviewing research findings, took the opportunity to visit a local nature reserve late in the afternoon.

There were many visitors, walking briskly along the paths, swapping from one hide, one viewing space to another. If only they'd taken the time to pause. Why make an effort to visit somewhere, to do something, if you don't give it your full attention?

The people who overtook me on the path missed the vole that ran across my feet. The ones  visiting each hide for 5 minutes missed the marsh harrier that landed in the reeds while his more attractive and larger mate sat on a branch a short distance away, or the egrets flying overhead, the red deer sat in the trees and the shoveller sifting the water for food.

In order to be mindful we need to pay attention. To what is going on in our minds and bodies as well as what is happening around us. When we go outside, with the intention of appreciating the natural environment we are all part of, do we give ourselves the time to stop, to engage, to notice?

What about everyday life? Does the quest for faster download speeds, fibre optic broadband, wi-fi this and 4G that really mean we'll get more out of life? How about slowing down and noticing? Do gadgets really save time or just fill space with something else? 

Try just pausing, breathing, looking out of the window, spotting something you haven't noticed. Try living instead of distracting!

More 'Gift of Small Things'

colours changing

Seeking something to smile at or about, something we haven't noticed before, are all part of building our mindfulness in daily life practice. The idea that we constantly receive 'gifts of small things' is even more apparent when we engage with nature, the outdoors. Whether looking through the window, walking in a park or something more adventurous, the opportunities are there to grasped.

Without wanting to sound like Julie Andrews in the 'Sound of Music', the wave of my partner, shuffling my feet in the fallen leaves, the copper coloured fern stems, the yellows, greens and reds of the trees, the richness of the berries, the sparrow on the fence, the heron in the stream, these are a few of my favourite things - the gifts of today. By the way, they're all free, you simply have to look.

Mindfulness - Gift of small things

Spectacular colours in the Ambleside car park

Practising mindfulness means being open, and yes the unpleasant will be in our experience but so will the pleasant. Being aware as we engage with our daily life can mean we receive lots of small gifts, the colour of the falling leaves, the birdsong, or simply that there was less traffic today. Mindfulness in daily life leads us to appreciate the beauty around us, to notice the seemingly mundane, to engage with nature, after all we're part of it. While at times we may feel at the centre of our own web of life, we have the freedom to explore the strands, to notice all the connections, to be one with all around us.

Try looking for things that make you smile, whether it is the dog walker with a reluctant Bassett Hound, the children playing on the rope slide, the spinning of a falling leaf, there are lots of small things that are out there and they can contribute to our sense of well being if only we're awake to notice.

Food for Hearts!

Autumn Mist

Discussing mindfulness in our daily lives with a friend last night we thought about the impact of the onset of dark mornings, early nights, dampness and all the changes that Autumn brings. How it can seem gloomy working in a room that needs lights on during the day.

I was reminded that we need different food. Food for the intellect, which we get from  'lifelong learning', reading, conversation. Food for the body, healthy eating and physical exercise. But that we also need food for the heart, that which motivates, sustains our values, enables us to live with equanimity, strong enough to deal with the difficult and painful, open enough to appreciate beauty, kindness and our interconnectedness with all life.

Later with my partner, we talked about the space meditation gives us, not to solve problems or 'think' things through (though that is of course possible), but to give us the ability to 'quiet' the turmoil we constantly have in our minds.

I thought of both discussions while walking this morning. It started in rain, ended in bright sunshine. The autumnal colours, deep reds, rich oranges,  young swans still with adolescent plumage flying overhead, the sound of twigs snapping, the smell of wet leaves. Difficult to think of work, issues etc when using all our senses, engaging fully with the life around us. Also how important it is to have friends, family or colleagues that help us engage fully, feed our heart connection. In Africa a common greeting is 'What does your heart say today'?

What is your heart saying to you?

Mindfulness in the City

Stunning architecture in Prague, Czech Republic

Having enjoyed the countryside it was great to also experience the sights of a national capital. Prague is a city full of history, activities, sights, great food, (and beer) friendly people. The history covers a range from ancient tribes through medieval knights to modern times including the ignoble periods of the second world war, Stalin and the Soviet invasion (and re-invasion).

There are wide tree lined avenues, lots of people in the city with dogs (but no dog mess seen!), a wide river and hills (with castles). Looking at the architecture it is interesting to reflect on how mindful the citizens who walk past everyday are of what is around them. Also to reflect on the changing views of  what appears to be a deeply Christian country, with churches, artifacts such as statues in squares, on buildings and bridges.

Old and modern, statue on bridge with tourist balloon in background

What are people mindful of in the city, is it all rush, tourists, sales, gimmicks. How do we all maintain perspective when faced with neon signs, traffic, sound, large advertising screens and the contrast with the old and new? What do we do to maintain mindfulness of ourselves and others?

6 IATC Post Conference Thoughts

Dawn, Hruba Scala

Having enjoyed the stunning scenery of Hruba Scala for a week, I then travelled by train to Prague. Pleased to note the very low priced rail fares (less than £5 (€8) for a two hour trip) which can only encourage people to travel in an environmentally aware way, as evidenced by the number of cycle spaces on the train (12 per carriage compared to Virgin Rail's 2 per train!). The train filled rapidly with a good throughput of passengers at each station on route, yet at no point did the train seem overcrowded and there was lots of place for luggage near to hand, if only British rail planners could understand this. Good trains, on time, with low fares would keep cars off the road. While this would mean less fuel duty into the exchequer the benefits would be in less pollution, better health.

Czech Conference 2 - 6IATC begins

The 6th International Adventure Therapy Conference held at Castle Hruba Scala in the 'Bohemian Paradise' or 'Rock City', an amazing area of sandstone pillars and outcrops shaped by millennia of rainfall, wind and human erosion, all in a forest setting, takes place every three years in a different region.

The conference attracts delegates from all around the world including Taiwan, Australia, the USA and Canada, Spain, Israel, the UK and many more. All with an understanding of the therapeutic benefits of nature and the outdoors and a desire to learn from others, share ideas and promote the awareness and use of adventure therapy in all its forms.

At such an event it's important to remember that being mindful includes caring for your own needs. So it has been important to establish a blend of exercise, reflection, study and conversation that is balanced, promotes learning, allows engagement but includes space for enjoyment and fun, just as any adventure activity would. Our lives too should have balance, perhaps with a similar blend, after all we are constantly learning, working, sharing even eating and sleeping. Being mindful means being aware of how much we do, whether too much or too little and whether we have the resources to manage this, responding to life and the issues that come along. In doing so it is important to remember to take the opportunity to engage with nature, whether that means a mountain trail or gardening on the allotment, kayaking or painting, is up to you. The key is to make sure we have time for what the poet Wordsworth called 'Tranquil Restoration'.

Czech conference 1

Travelled to the Czech Republic for the 6th International Adventure Therapy Conference, held in the spectacular setting of castle Hruba Scala in the 'Bohemian Paradise' or Rock City.

Interesting experiences on the way here. Trains late, people in 'quiet' carriages who don't get the concept of mobile phone use not being allowed. 'But it's my work phone and I'm clearly very important because I need to keep reminding my colleagues I'm on the train and they can ring me if there is something important that can't possibly wait or heaven forbid be done by them!'

Sorry, shouldn't rant, that's not what this blog is for, but it helps set the scene. Especially when the delayed trains were followed by 3 hour flight delay, arriving in Prague late at night, in the pouring rain.

So here is the mindful input. In my hotel room I realised I needed to relax so went for a short walk to relieve some physical aches before settling for a short meditation including being aware that all the problems had been shared by all travellers that day due to very bad weather and weren't aimed at me personally!

The next morning the sun was shining and after a run to get rid of cobwebs I went to the square by the opera house for breakfast and coffee. Here I was able to sit, be in the moment, appreciate the sun on my face, the smiles on people's faces, the antics of tour guides with colourful umbrellas, electric cycles, adults on push scooters going very fast through the crowds, the shouts of market traders and the gentle buzz of a city coming to life. A great reminder that being in the moment, engaging one's senses, being open to experiences is a great way to feel good, physically, mentally and emotionally.

And so on to the conference and the opportunity to meet old friends, make new ones, learn, share and be inspired, oh yes and be a little pensive as I'm presenting two papers and chairing part of the conference!

Look on the bright side

Rainbow over Loch Tay

Just recently I've been aware that a number of friends and colleagues have needed to take time to cope with the pressures they are facing. Interestingly many people are surprised by this, as they are seen to have idyllic lives, living in a beautiful place, working in a fantastic setting etc. But herein lies the problem - perception. What people see on the surface may not be what is actually happening underneath, metaphors about such things as ducks paddling furiously and icebergs being bigger under the surface abound for this reason.

We all face issues in our lives - illnesses, pain, family and friends, work and finance and yes mindfulness can help with all of these, as can being in nature. The key is that this will only happen if it is an active process. Being in nature is great, if you are aware of its benefits constantly. Like friends and colleagues when the issues in life counter the resources we use to balance them, then we will either be overcome or by being active we can add more resources. Mindfulness in and of nature is an essential part of helping us be active, be 'in the moment', appreciating what else is in our lives; counterbalancing issues even momentarily. Just as the unexpected view of a rainbow makes you pause and appreciate the sun and the rain that creates it, so mindfulness in and of nature encourages you to look, to see, to appreciate the beauty around us and keep a perspective, a balance.

Tangled Webs

You may have heard the saying "what a tangled web we weave when we practice to deceive" and this has often been used to illustrate the importance of truth and simple communication. But we don't have to be trying to deceive, our whole lives are a tangled web, often with connections we don't see, aren't aware of. 

Being mindful helps us not necessarily untangle, but certainly see the web, understand that everything in our life is connected whether internally, to our background, experience, family, education and much more, or externally to the people around us, our work, reliance on gadgets, texting, the weather, whatever.

When we learn to look at the web, we see the connections much more clearly, recognise the strong, the tenuous, what is able to support and what needs to be strengthened or disregarded.

Being mindful in and of nature allows us to learn from all other life too, that things change, often aren't perfect but can still be beautiful.

Castles, money, celebrity and health

Lindisfarne Castle, Northumberland

There is an old saying that 'an Englishmen's home is his castle' and while the majority of us don't live in castles - did we ever?! where we live, where we are from, where we'd prefer to be, all play a part in our sense of 'self', our ability to feel comfortable, safe and happy with who and what we are. But our own sense of self also affects the society we are part of. Some complain about trends in society, especially behaviour but then just shut themselves away in their towers and do nothing to bring about change. 

The spirit of the Olympics , the work of volunteers and the support of the crowds reflects the true values we can have as individuals, while the greed of banks, the profiteering, high wage, bonus culture, money above all else attitude (just look at G4S, Banks, the damage caused by 'Big Oil' at the expense of our environment) doesn't. The ideals of a 'Big Society' laudable as they may seem are undermined by the large business interests behind them, such as SERCO taking over services that could be run by smaller charities if they were given the funding direct rather than the corporate 'top slicing' loved by the Government. The only way we will have a true legacy of the Olympics with improved health for all, is if there is grass roots interest in sport. Money should go to local authorities, schools and clubs to improve facilities and make them open to all. We should stop the craze for instant fame 'celebrity' status beloved of the media and focus on the determination and work shown by Olympic athletes. Forget the corporate image of sponsors and look at the dedication of our armed forces who've bailed them out. Forget the surgically modified bodies and look at the fantastic shapes of athletes. Once we start to believe in real people again, we'll be healthier as individuals and as a society and our 'sense of self' we be maintained by the reality around us, real people working for the best motives, helping others and protecting the places in which we live.

Depression and death

Big views can lift your spirits

Although the title of this post may seem depressive in itself, it reflects a growing problem in society that can be overcome by increased awareness, exercise and connecting with nature. A study, published in the British Medical Journal, is the largest so far to show an association between what was regarded as low level psychological distress or depression, and death. The need for increased use of  interventions such as mindfulness and activities in the outdoors is highlighted by the fact that the evidence suggests that treatment of what are regarded as common symptoms faced by 1 in 4 of the population can reduce this increased mortality.

While the medical profession still seem intent on the use of medication, prescribing a wide array of drug treatments for depression, lifestyle choices i.e. to be more active, to get out more, to eat well, to be aware of the day to day issues we face and how our responses affect our wellbeing are a cheaper, easier alternative that promotes self-managemetn of whatever condition we face. 

Engaging with life

Thanks to our friends at Earthlines we're reminded that these words by Wendell Berry emphasis how important it is to engage with our senses, to be aware.

'Until we understand what the land is, we are at odds with everything we touch. And to come to that understanding it is necessary, even now, to leave the regions of our conquest - the cleared fields, the towns and cities, the highways - and re-enter the woods. For only there can a man encounter the silence and the darkness of his own absence. Only in this silence and darkness can he recover the sense of the world's longevity, of its ability to thrive without him, of his inferiority to it and his dependence on it. Perhaps then, having heard that silence and seen that darkness, he will grow humble before the place and begin to take it in - to learn from it what it is. As its sounds come into his hearing, and its lights and colours come into his vision, and its odours come into his nostrils, then he may come into its presence as he never has before, and he will arrive in his place and will want to remain. His life will grow out of the ground like the other lives of the place, and take its place among them. He will be with them - neither ignorant of them, nor indifferent to them, nor against them - and so at last he will grow to be native-born. That is, he must re-enter the silence and the darkness, and be born again.'

― Wendell Berry, The Art of the Commonplace: The Agrarian Essays

Mindfulness in Action

Poster for tonight's event, exhibition open until end of August

Tonight a photographic exhibition opened at the Coach House, Ford Park, Ulverston, part of a funded community project. We've been pleased to help at Ford Park over the last few years, running mindfulness and other courses, supporting people and taking part in projects. The photographs and films were all taken / made by volunteers who support the Park. But the Park also supports them. Some come to the Park as part of a rehabilitation process following health or other problems. Some are retired and value the opportunity to support the community and make friends. Others, especially younger people, see it as an opportunity to help others while at the same time gaining valuable work experience. What they all have in common is that they are supported by the environment and community of Ford Park. The gardens, fields, trees, allotments and open spaces all have an impact and this is illustrated in the exhibition itself. The images reflect the interests of the volunteers, but also show what has been important or memorable to them, what they were mindful of, helped by. Whether it was a particular view, the smile of another, a flower, an activity, it doesn't matter. Instead what the images clearly show are the importance of looking, noticing, being mindful of self but also of connections, to nature, people and place. Try it, carry a camera. What do you look at, notice, record and reflect on?

Raining

It's raining, the grass looks lush, vivid green. The birds strut across the lawn finding worms, all focused on food not each other. The corrugated iron roof has a symphony playing as the raindrops splash creating rippling rings in the puddles on the roof, the flowers in the pond are coming to life. Being mindful means seeking out the pleasant! There's so much to see, being in nature means being in the moment, so many fleeting glimpses, activity everywhere regardless of the weather. By watching, seeing, we can for the moment appreciate beauty, harshness, the world around us, that we are part of, no matter what else we're dealing with.

Essence of Mindfulness

At the UK Mindfulness Trainer's Network meeting we've been discussing the qualities of the people we train - the mindfulness teachers working with the public. We've talked about trust, respect, compassion, integrity, connectedness and many more. Yet these are not just the qualities of a good teacher, they are the qualities we all need in everyday life; trusting and respecting those around us, showing compassion for others, having a connection with people, other living things, the planet. Without them we become shut off, scared of others, uncaring, miserable.

The tide goes out in Morecambe bay

Being in nature can help, seeing that things change, appreciating the beauty of a wild animal while understanding the viciousness of its food gathering, understanding the weather, the rain stops, plants grow, life goes on. All help us appreicate the life we have, the need to care, the ability to change.

Connecting with Nature - a group in our local park

Tomorrow we'll be joining friends and colleagues at the annual UK Mindfulness Trainer's Network meeting near Crewe. We'll be discussing developments in practice including the success of the UK Mindfulness Teacher guidelines established by the network.

This article, written by great UK adventure racer Fi Spotswood captures the benefits of being active outdoors and shows how resilient someone can be with help of friends, exercise and nature.

http://www.cyclistno1.co.uk/features/rides/lejog-off-road-mountain-biking-therapy.htm

The BBC have just aired a great programme about the work we're involved in. Just check out this link:

All in the mind

Sense of Place 8

Kayaking on Loch Lomond

So the tour draws to a close, but rather than one long drive back we decide to stage the trip by stopping on Loch Lomond for two days. 

The loch was at times a bit choppy

We were at times drawn to walking rather than bouncing about on the water. Though our campsite was secluded next to a small bay with launching from the back of the van there were also plenty of footpaths including the West Highland Way just a couple of hundred yards away. This meant we quickly discovered that although looking remote, the local area was in fact a hive of activity, especially as we stayed into the weekend, finding that the area became an obvious escape for the citizens of Stirling, Dunbarton and Glasgow. What does continue to puzzle though is the perceived need for people to bring all their belongings. It seems that instead of enjoying this place they are simply transferring their home space temporarily to the countryside, with large caravans with satellite TV, loud music, barbeques, well stocked fridges of beer (or are we in danger of becoming 'countryside snobs'). We need to be mindful of the fact that while the parents are watching their tv's and cleaning their gas guzzling 4x4s at least the kids are climbing trees, enjoying their time in open space!

Sense of Place 7 - sea eagles

White tailed or Sea Eagle

Walking around Glenuig today we stopped for lunch overlooking the bay and were fortunate enough to see two white tailed or sea eagles take off and fly low directly in front of us. The trip became even more special when we spotted golden eagle soaring the slopes of Rois Beinn.

It is easy to see how such sights can make a place feel special for the visitor, but if you've lived in an area all your life do you appreciate the same sites, are they simply part of the fabric of your daily life and if not these what are you mindful of? What do you connect with?

When we get so involved with our everyday existence do we need to adopt specific practices to help us maintain a connection with the natural place around us and if so what form do these take?

Sense of Place 6

Our campsite launch area

From Mallaig we head south, hoping to find a campsite that 'feels' right rather than having decided in advance from a list of sites from the tourist information and some recommended by friends. In the end we nearly got to a site a friend told us about but were instead attracted by a new site with obvious access to the sea. This proved a great location, with sheltered launch point and attractive routes North and South around the coast. Even at this site we met people who were 'incomers'. The owners were a husband and wife team, she had first visited working in hotels before moving to to the South Coast of England. She missed the hills and rugged coast so much she'd always wanted  to return. He was a former Glaswegian builder who sold his business after twenty years to move to the area he'd also holidayed in.  The owners of the local hotel were English (though they contended well with the nationalistic banter of other locals during our visit) who'd also sold up to start afresh in the area.

Talking to people it seems that many try to earn a living but move away due to family / low income and other pressures, while others move to the area having identified new opportunities (the campsite) or being able to work to different levels now the family had grown (the hoteliers). Interesting to look at how external pressures influence these decisions. There appears to be good technological accessibility with people working as software designers, authors, publishers from home, connected by broadband services that equal those of cities where speeds often get reduced due to volume access requirements. There are good roads, local rail services, links that are rare in areas such as rural Cumbria. So do people need stronger family ties including family businesses e.g. fishing, to encourage them to stay or is it natural to want to move away - to see the 'big wide world'. Are there consumerist pressures that make city life more attractive at a certain age with people returning to their roots or the place they make a connection with as they get older? All issues to examine in order to understand 'sense of place' and how it effects ourselves and others.

Sense of Place Tour 5

Final views as we leave the Summer Isles

Moving from the Summer Isles to Arasaig we decided to 'cut the corner' by driving over the bridge from Kyle of Lochalsh to Skye and then drive down to Armadale to catch the ferry to Mallaig. Stopping in Kyle of Lochalsh it soon became apparent that that is all many people do - stop rather than stay. There seem to be streams of coaches which step, jettison their passengers for a short while of coffee breaks, photo opportunities and shopping (for nothing that is really needed!), missing the time needed to spot the harbour porpoises, the seals, otters and all the scenery that is part of 'place'.

Moving over to Skye we decide to stay overnight (not having a fixed itinerary has meant having a greater sense of freedom, the opportunity to really explore) and drive to a campsite near Dunvegan. Although we stay on an award winning site at the side of a loch we notice we must have been spoilt by the fantastic views and drama of the highlands as we feel the whole area seems flat and grey. We address this by lochside walks (the winds are too high to be on the water) and the next day tour some of the remoter parts of NW Skye - great walking areas and back into mountains. We then move to Kylerhea where we walk into the nature reserve over looking the sea to spend a few hours seal watching.

Seal watching

From here it is a short drive to Armadale for the ferry. It has been interesting talking to 'locals' about their life here. Many of those we speak to are 'locals' only in terms of now living in the 'place' rather than familial or other ties. They are 'incomers' who having visited, have decided to stay (or at least move to here!), some from other parts of Scotland or England, others from much greater distance such as New Zealand, all attracted by the 'place' and what makes it special for them, even if they struggle to define what that is in our short discussions. This obviously opens up areas which can be explored in more detail on another occasion.

Sense of Place Tour 4

Ecohome

Having been in the Summer Isles (though actually also picking up on what we've seen and heard as we travelled) for a short while, we're noticing people seem more connected to the place, to their environment. The books in the bookshop we thought were aimed at tourists but apparently books on nature, philosophy and local history are more likely to be bought by locals. There are strong community groups, campaigning, lift sharing, activities, people taking responsibility.

As kayakers using the beaches we've helped with a beach clean, locals coming together to protect their environment. We've met people who have settled here from other areas not just for the views, or connections with nature, but the sense of community, the sense of warmth and safety and though many have 'downsized' they say the quality rather than quantity of life is better.

We're also noticing the flexibility, seeing the same person doing a number of jobs in order to be sufficient, the person who spends time as warden of a hostel during the summer and coordinating a footpath scheme in the winter. The person who writes software from a croft  with a view of the bay, while looking after the sheep too. People seem to have a greater sense of themselves, a confidence in their choices and less dependence on big brands, TV, having more. A community influenced by and for its members rather than external pressures. And this isn't painting a 'rosy' glow. In winter it's hard, longer periods of darkness, roads blocked, bad weather but still people do things and while some move away some communities are stronger with 'incomers' contributing rather than trying to change things to suit themselves.

Sense of Place Tour 3 - Summer Isles

Heading into the bay after a squall, waves breaking over rocks

Our first time in new touring kayaks (other than test paddles pre & post purchase). Initial feelings of nervousness - argh they're wobbly! Then we remember the instructions that we should 'wear' our kayaks, positioning ourselves well, locking into the boat and allowing it to respond with our movement rather than our reacting to every wave, swell, ripple. Typical instructions for mindfulness too, being aware, noticing how we're feeling, connecting, allows us to make choices - to respond rather than react.

Before coming to the Summer Isles we were warned not to expect summer! and today is a great example, we have all seasons in one day, and it's great to notice this, be comfortable with it (we are after all well equipped - believing there is no such thing as bad weather just inappropriate choices of clothing and activity!). So walking up to a cuckoo and the sun this morning, then kayaking in a breeze and light rain, then a walk and it's hailing, but no the sun comes out again and it's really warm, but then in the middle of our walk it gets cold and we're in a blizzard. But we get back to road and a cafe just as sun comes out and we sit outside in T shirts. Strange world. 

Bring on the elements!

Sense of Place Tour 2 - Summer Isles

First View of the Summer Isles

A long but very pleasant drive via Inverness and food in Ullapool - good cafe/bar/bookshop see http://www.theceilidhplace.com  

We drive past Stac Pollaidh with its stunning rock ridge and finally come over the crest to approach Altandhu and our first view of the Summer Isles - breathtaking! When we're mindful of a view, a scene, what is it that so engages us we are lost for words, breathless, tearful?

Park the van in the campsite and settle in, cup of tea looking at the view, very relaxing,

Campsite and view - Altandhu

is it the tea or simply that we've stopped, have the opportunity to take in our surroundings and be mindful of ourselves in this place.

The 'Tengrian' approach, that of the nomadic culture of Kyrgyzstan, would suggest we find it easy to relax here because we can 'centre' ourselves in this place easily. There is water to connect us to our experience, ancestors, past teaching; mountains and trees to connect us to the sky world, the future and we can see in all directions. Be at one with the place.

Sense of Place Tour 1 - Loch Ness

The locks at Fort Augustus

Travelling on the first leg of our 'sense of place' tour I'm struck by how disappointing 'social housing' is. Surely planners can commission designers with some skills so that housing can be somewhere people are pleased to call 'home'? We passed through Dumfries where it was immediately obvious when we passed over the bypass into an area where there was less care, less interest in how the place looked. This was then mirrored by the litter, graffiti shops etc. It isn't difficult to encourage people to respect the 'place' they live, lots of areas manage it. The new housing scheme in Aviemore is a great example of rented, shared and full ownership in houses that look good, aren't all the same and are surrounded by green space.

Travelling on to Fort Augustus at the side of Loch Ness I'm struck by how much easier it is for people who travel light to get through from the loch to the canal. The large power boats have to wait and take a long time to progress up or down. The canoes, kayaks and cyclists on the great glen train simply pass in minutes. Is this an example of less is better?

Sense of Place Tour

Next week, we're going on tour. Exploring the N.W. Highlands of Scotland on foot and by kayak. Talking to the people we meet and discussing how we connect with, make, have a sense of place. Is it the scenery, the people, the wildlife, the space? We'll be reporting back with regular updates to this blog as well as producing  a visual record of our experiences.

naturallymindful: Reflection

naturallymindful: Reflection: Someone suggested the other day "that it's OK for you, you live in a nice place and are able to do what you enjoy". Thinking about this, th...

Reflection

Someone suggested the other day "that it's OK for you, you live in a nice place and are able to do what you enjoy". Thinking about this, they were right. It is OK for me. But that doesn't mean I don't have things to sort out, to be concerned about or any of the other things that happen to us all. It does mean that I have to make choices, just as we all have to. But by practicing mindfulness these choices can be different,  to be where I am, work as I do, live within a lower income, whatever. How many of us think I'll eventually get round to it, what's stopping you?

If being mindful is simple a practice that is about coping with problems then how will you notice when things go well? If you are constantly watching the bank balance, the shopping, the children, when do you notice you? I thought about some of the events I've worked at and you get to the end and collapse, tired, glad it's all over. Then someone says that was a great event and you didn't see any of it, simply focused on the task not what was happening around you. I'm sure it will be the same for many involved with Olympic events, they'll be so busy helping visitors they'll miss the excitement of a sprint finish, the smiles on faces, the grand occasion. Wouldn't it be a pity if this was our lives, so busy living, coping, dealing with whatever happens, to actually notice life.

So yes, I'm lucky, but there is an old saying that the more you try the luckier you get. Think about what is important, look at what is happening around you. What would you have, do, want, if suddenly everything changed? It might. So with mindfulness move on, notice the good things not just the difficulties, reflect on what is most important and act accordingly.

Get Out!

This video from Outdoor Nation summarises many of the benefits of being outdoors

Being mindful

Reading 'Findings' by Kathleen Jamie, I'm struck by a passage in which she refers to learning to identify birds and which to me clearly illustrates practicing mindfulness. The passage is:


"This is what I want to learn: to notice but not to analyse. To still the part of the brain that's yammering. 'My god, what's that? A stork, a crane, an ibis? - don't be silly, it's just a weird heron'. Sometimes we have to hush the frantic inner voice that says 'Don't be stupid', and learn again to look, to listen. You can do the organising and redrafting, the diagnosing and identifying later, but right now be open to it, see how it's tilting nervously in the wind, try to see the colour, the unchancy shape - hold it in your head, bring it home intact".

Not heron but oystercatchers

While we may not all be birdwatchers we can all use what we notice in nature to help us deepen our mindfulness practice, helping it extend to all areas of our lives, learning to notice and not over analyse.

NHS Video

For some years we've been working with the Ford Park Community Group delivering a range of activities ranging from mindfulness programmes including pain management and mindful movement, through to first aid training for volunteers. They've now been selected as an exemplar project for the NHS.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YdjDXT37RU

multi-tasking and mindfulness

The start / finish line

An adventure race may seem on odd place to bring to mind when discussing mindfulness but it provides a great venue to watch the practice of mindfulness in all its aspects. On Sunday we were fortunate to have great weather, dry and sunny with a cooling breeze, beautiful blue skies and  countryside full of vivid greens, bright yellows, and all shared with good companions. 

It was possible to see  how some people approached the day with a 'task' focus - this must be done, then that, then the next thing. For others it was a question of looking around and seeing what could be done. For racers some seemed to be oblivious to everything except the map, the route and the time, while others did have awareness of these core elements (after all it is a race) but at the same time noticed the scenery, the level of water in the streams, the wildlife.

While some say mindfulness means present moment, non judgemental awareness, personally this isn't deep enough - aware of what? One thing (the task focus) or everything? Can we be aware in the moment if we are thinking of the time, of what comes next? And how can we be non-judgemental when every thought can be governed by our experience to date and expectations of what comes next? Just watching the racers brings this out, how one person reacts to something untoward whether injury or mistake and immediately judges the future (that great word 'catastrophising') - that's it, might as well give up and go home. While another's injury is accepted as a prompt to at least enjoy the day even if racing stops. But even these statements involve judgement. How can one person know if another is being overly dramatic or whether in their minds the situation is dire, they won't be able to do that important work tomorrow, they have travelled a long way and given up a lot to be here today.

This translates to our daily lives, how much of our travel is a means to an end - I need to be at work for 8.00am whether the sun is shiny or not is irrelevant, I'm not looking out of the train window anyway. How often do we respond to those we work with without consideration for their view, their ability to cope right now. It's great to see racers setting off prepared to help each other, to work as a team, their bikes already kitted to tow their team mate, an appreciation of common goals but different different abilities in the moment. How often do we think of the same things in the workplace, in the family? At least with mindfulness we 'buy' ourselves time to respond to what arises rather than just react habitually.

So practice, be aware of what we see and feel and how we judge ourselves, our thoughts and others.

National Trust

The National Trust have today released their new report highlighting concerns about children's access to nature.http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/what-we-do/news/view-page/item788564/


But this isn't just about children. As adults we all need to recognise the value of nature for our own health and wellbeing, that of future generations and the need to protect nature in order to ensure a future we can all share in. Adults need to help children appreciate nature, enjoy it, benefit from it. Amazingly (not really!) it is cheaper to be in nature than in front of the latest games console, have a picnic rather than visit a burger joint.

We can bring to mind the way we engage with nature, what are the sights, sounds, smells that we enjoy, that make us smile? The things we remember from our childhood. How are we helping children have the same or better experiences (with modern clothing they don't need to experience being dragged around a cold wet hillside the way we may remember)?

Panic buying fuel?

So the Government thinks we should store fuel at home! A transport minister this morning announced that it wasn't an irresponsible idea after all the police and ambulance service have their own stores. Note to ministers - these are in properly constructed, inspected fuel tanks not garden sheds! Maybe it's me but isn't it suspicious that an organised industrial dispute over safety and conditions is suddenly made out to be threatening, just at the time the Government is facing a backlash over VAT, pensions, taxes and money for meals with the PM? Were they thinking 'Let's take the sting out of Government action by hyping up some different agenda'!

Cycling can be fun, quicker, healthier!

Surely if the Government is worried about fuel availability they should encourage us to be mindful of it. To drive slower, take fewer journeys, travel by cycle, run, walk, get the train. All the same messages that they should approach regarding the environment too - use less, for health - walk more, improve traffic - drive less. But no, instead we get buy, buy, buy and we all contribute more to the exchequer by doing so.


So if you are worried by fuel shortages, escalating prices, your health or simply want to save money then travel more sustainably, it's good for you!

Different perspectives

It is not yet the tourist season yet passing by Bowness pier you are struck by the garish trimmings, the amount of activity, the noise, and our minds can be just like this, seemingly full of clutter. Yet sometimes all that is needed is a different perspective, looking at whatever is going on with a new viewpoint.

Same lake (Windemere), different perspective

Mindfulness helps you recognise the clutter (thought) for just what it is and enables you to move, to focus on what is happening away from the clutter, the quiet and deeper sensations all around.

Engaging the senses

Looking across to Whitfell (the turnround point) from Buckbarrow this morning

How often do we really engage with all our senses? We sit at a computer, in the car, working a piece of machinery, responding (or reacting!) to what we see, what we feel. But how much of these responses are singular - the look of the words in a document; habitual - the same thing everyday; and how many engage our emotions? Perhaps when we go home and the aroma of a good meal wafts through the hallway or the perfume worn by a partner may engage us, but all day, everyday?

That's why it is important to get outside, practising mindfulness in nature, when all our senses can be recognised and yes all at the same time! With just the sense of touch on this mornings walk I was simultaneously aware and engaged by the feel of the rock I was scrambling up, the warmth of the sun on my face, the coolness of the strong wind, the movement of my jacket, an appreciation of the protection it offered. Then the other senses, the taste of unpolluted air and the warmth and smell of the rising mist, the fantastic long views rather than just to the other side of the street. By engaging fully with our senses we can't help being fully in the moment, mindful of everything that is going on. By noticing so much it's also difficult to slip into 'judgement' mode as by being fully aware we appreciate that everything is constantly changing. It's also difficult to keep your mind cluttered with the schedules, plans, demands and stresses of our 'normal' yet surely 'less natural' life.

connecting with the Earth, views of a Zen Master

In a recent Guardian article, well known meditation teacher and Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh spoke of the increasing evidence that mindfulness can help people to reconnect to nature by encouraging them to slow down and appreciate all the gifts that the earth can offer.

"Many people suffer deeply and they do not know they suffer," he says. "They try to cover up the suffering by being busy. Many people get sick today because they get alienated from Mother Earth”.

He discussed how the practice of mindfulness in nature helps us to develop body awareness and a connection with all around us and that the healing of the people goes hand in hand with the healing of the Earth. 

He also spoke of how an improved connection with nature helps protect the environment too.

"This kind of enlightenment is very crucial to a collective awakening... to be awake to the fact that the earth is in danger and living species are in danger."

Physician heal thyself

Waves coming in at Walney

Today I felt the need for some 'me' time. After a few weeks of seemingly constant work, interspersed with supporting children, mountain rescue cascare exams and callouts, adventure race medical support and a prehospital care course I took a couple of hours to myself.

It's interesting how even knowing the power of being in nature, I don't take advantage of my surroundings enough, contenting myself when busy with a daily early morning meditation and a quick local fell or woodland walk accompanied by jess the dog!

So with a good breeze and a high tide I went to Walney to walk along the coast where the sound not only of waves crashing but the gentle roll of pebbles over and over each other can really take hold  of the senses. The breeze was chilly but refreshing, blowing away the computer screen staring eyes and cognitive cobwebs. The screeching whistle of oystercatchers along with seeing eider, lapwing and snipe all added to the occasion, even watching dogs playing with their owners (why is it that collies always try to herd?) adds to the feeling of freedom.

Back to the car, with a good glow and reminder to get out from behind the screen, engage with my environment and feel good.