Local Bath-based author and mindfulness coach, Nicola MacDonald of Bath Mindfulness is collaborating with Steve Sutherland of Hidden Woods forest school to launch a new resilience course for teenagers, Resilient Teen In The Woods, based around her book Resilient Teen.
The course comes as a result of the toll that the coronavirus pandemic has taken on young people’s mental health. The Centre for Mental Health confirms that 1 in 6 children in England aged 5-16 now having a ‘probable mental health disorder’ in 2020, up from 1 in 9 in 2017.
“This course is aimed at teenagers who are struggling with stress, anxiety or low self-esteem,” said Nicola. “Using a combination of mindfulness, self-compassion and positive self-talk, teens will become more self-aware and resilient. They will learn how to handle stress and anxiety when faced with a setback, how to release emotions healthily and how to boost self-esteem. Ultimately they will feel mentally stronger, ready to surf any wave that comes their way.”
“We’re really looking forward to working with Nicola on this project, offering teens the chance to spend time in our stunning woodland camp whilst decompressing from all the stresses and strains of modern life,” adds Steve. “We’ve already received a lot of interest in the course and very much hope that it will be the first of many.”
Each session includes a hot drink and tasty snack prepared over the campfire. One week will include mindful hot chocolate making with Helen Wilshire Makes, using delicious supplies from Harth Chocolate.
The course will take place at Hidden Woods, near Norton St Philip, every Friday after school for six weeks commencing 10 September 2021. Up to ten teenagers between the ages of 13 to 16 can join the programme. It will cost £28 per session (£168 for the full course) which includes a hot drink, snack, use of a mat and blanket as well as a copy of Nicola’s book, Resilient Teen.
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Nicola’s book, Resilient Teen, which is available on Amazon, is included within the package as an opportunity to learn more and practice meditations at home.