As we approach World Mental Health Day on 10 October, we reflect on the healing properties of the natural world to support our wellbeing

in the deepest sense.

 Disconnection is a key feature of the modern mental health crisis — disconnection between mind and body, between individuals and their communities, and between humanity and the natural world.

We believe that by reconnecting with Nature we can heal ourselves and build resilient, regenerative societies. This month we offer a range of events designed to deepen your connection with Nature, from captivating explorations of plant music to our Samhain celebration. We are also delighted to share content from the Resurgence archives about Nature's positive impact on mental health and wellbeing.

We can all find solace and healing through the wisdom of the Earth, and through connection foster greater wellbeing for ourselves and

our communities.

Life drawing group

Tuesday 15 October • 7—9pm BST • Zoom and The Resurgence Centre

Enhance your skills, enjoy the artful company of an experienced model, and indulge in the tranquillity of drawing. Our presenter will guide you through nuanced stances ranging from two-minute warm-ups to an hour-long pose.



Draw from the comfort of your own home in real time with our

state-of-the-art filming technology.

The beauty of plant music

Tuesday 22 October • 7—8.30pm BST • Zoom

What does a conversation with a tree or a flower sound like? How might we be changed once we have experienced the voices of the unheard plant world?

Be immersed in this world with musician, composer and teacher

Alex H Duncan, a passionate plant advocate who gives the living green world a voice when we are in desperate need of its undoubtable wisdom.

From the Resurgence archive

How Did We Get Here?

Tony Gillam, Issue 337, March/April 2023

Tony Gillam explores the connection between Nature, music and mental health through the work of singer songwriter Lizzy Hardingham, whose album How Did We Get Here? reflects on the therapeutic benefits of music for mental wellbeing. The project features interviews with musicians and mental health professionals, emphasising how creativity and Nature can ground us during difficult times.

Illustration © Sophie Casson / Ikon Images

Resurgence Talk with Melissa Glackin

'Heartwood: sharing insights into environmental education'

Wednesday 23 October • 7—8pm BST • Zoom

Environmental education research literatures are rich and deep. However, many of the insightful theories and concepts they communicate remain locked away, inaccessible to those working within educational contexts.

In this talk, Melissa Glackin explores how the Heartwood essay collection project enabled insights from the dense academic literature to be freed by educators and shared with friends, family and colleagues. She will present the key interconnected messages running through the essays as to how educators feel about the environmental crisis and the role education

ought to play.

Samhain celebration

Guided meditation, Nature connection and self-reflection

Tuesday 29 October • 6.30—7.30pm GMT • Zoom

As we journey deep into the dark half of the year, let us nurture our relationship with Nature, ourselves and the dark. The people of old believed everything began in the dark — the babe in the dark of the womb, the seed in the dark of the Earth. So for them, Samhain, a time of growing darkness, marked the beginning of a new year. 

Embark on a journey that will bring you into greater harmony with yourself and with the natural world. We will honour the Earth and our place in the web of life through guided meditation, Nature connection

and self-reflection.

Hope Springs

A Resurgence podcast with Annabel Heseltine

In Hope Springs we hear from people working on the frontline of the environmental crisis and explore what compels them to achieve remarkable things for the natural world.

Think of Hope Springs as a guide to recovery — and to discovering a sense of optimism and purpose, even in the midst of grave challenges.

In episode 2, Annabel Heseltine interviews Christiana Figueres about her extraordinary work leading to the adoption of the Paris Agreement at COP21.

Photo © Jostephen.photography

From the Resurgence archive

Just what the doctor ordered

James Szymankiewicz, Issue 314, May/Jun 2019

James Szymankiewicz highlights the importance of reconnecting with Nature to improve mental and physical health. The Naturally Healthy campaign encourages people to engage more with the natural world, addressing issues like rising mental health problems, obesity and a disconnection from Nature.

The current healthcare system focuses on treating established illnesses rather than promoting preventive measures like lifestyle changes. James advocates for embedding Nature-based activities into education and healthcare, showing evidence that such interventions improve health, reduce costs, and foster wellbeing.

Support The Resurgence Trust

Your donation to The Resurgence Trust can make a significant impact. Your contribution will support our programmes, including the publication of Resurgence & Ecologist magazine and running the Resurgence Centre for environmental education in Hartland, Devon. With your help we can forge a more interconnected and compassionate world.

Thank you for your continued support.

Illustration by Katie Chandler

Resurgence & Ecologist is a beautifully intersectional magazine for those who believe that a better world is possible. A flagship of environmental advocacy, this bi-monthly publication explores a broad spectrum of perspectives on Nature and ecology. From ecological economics and environmental justice to spiritual wellbeing and the arts, Resurgence & Ecologist acts in service to a more harmonious and regenerative future for us all.

Membership benefits include:

Six print magazines a year — nourishment for mind, heart and soul

Monthly meditations — online and live with Satish Kumar or Georgie Gilmore

An annual online event — connect with fellow members

Supporting The Resurgence Trust in informing and inspiring positive change for people and planet

"I love Resurgence and have the most profound respect for this inspirational magazine" — Annie Lennox

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