Spotlight on the Walking Group & the Allotment Group!

 

In a new addition to this years Green UPLIFT programme we now have two regular outdoor groups in the Walking group and the allotment group . We spoke to group leaders Neil and Julie to find out more about the group and their connection to the great outdoors.

The Walking Group 

Walking group leader Neil has always appreciated the outdoors, much of his childhood was spent outside exploring and adventuring. Now, Neil tells us, being outdoors brings him a kind of peace he doesn’t find anywhere else.

“I resisted the idea of the outdoors to help with my mental wellbeing because I had years of being quite sedentary in my adulthood. But over the last 5 years I can honestly say it’s become one of my main tools to help me manage my mood and general health.”

The idea behind the walking group is to get out into some of the beautiful countryside that we are lucky to have in Barnsley, to find strange and wonderful nooks and crannys of our many footpaths, parks and fields, and explore places we’re guilty of passing without taking much notice.

Neil says, “I think there's something magical about the outdoors, the gentle pace of walking and talking with people. Gently strolling the stresses of everyday life away. Watching my dog willow at her happiest whilst we’re out - it's my greatest joy.”

The walking group meets every Friday afternoon from midday, alternating between easy park strolls and more challenging walks (around 4-5 miles). Information about each walk is shared in ‘weekly run down’ texts that are sent out at the beginning of the week. Neil would love to see you on a walk soon!

The Allotment Group 

Here at Green UPLIFT we are thrilled to own a little patch of a larger Community Allotment managed by Barnsley YMCA which we tend to collectively through the allotment group weekly meet ups on Wendnesday’s from 12-3pm.

Group leader Julie describes the allotment as ‘Your Garden’, it is for the UPLIFT community to come along and enjoy whether that be by getting stuck in and getting your hands dirty or coming for a cuppa and a chat. Julie explains that everyone is welcome at the allotment, you don’t have to do any gardening if you don’t want to. There’s no pressure to be an expert, you really take from it what you wish. For those who like to come along to relax and connect, the kettles always on, there’s always a conversation to be had and there’s materials available for uplifter’s to sketch and get their creative juices flowing. On the other hand, for those who wish to get their hands dirty , there’s work to be done whether it be weeding or watering or tending to the wild flower patch and vegetable patch. Julie tells me they are onto a good crop of cucumber and tomatoes at the moment with the plan to use the home grown veg to make a meal at a future green uplift. Sounds delicious!

Julie who has been a participant of Creative Recovery and the Green UPLIFT project for the last few years says that she used to consider being amongst nature a luxury in previous years. Now it is a necessity for her wellbeing and mental health.

‘The fresh air does me the world of good, just being out outdoors heightens my senses, I like going back to the roots, I find it very grounding. Nature to me is exciting.  To plant a seed and watch it grow is magical.’

This wonderful space is also used for monthly Allotment Socials 3.00-7.30pm when the
evenings are lighter. These ever-popular gatherings include green crafts, gardening, food, campfires and live music. Keep an eye on the Live Arts Cafe programme or call Helen on 07833 936 019 to find out more.

The allotment group meets at the Barnsley YMCA community allotment on Shaw Lane every Wednesday, 12-3pm. Julie would love to welcome new uplifters along to share in her passion for the outdoors and it’s benefits on our wellbeing.

 

Landart art at Locke Park & Worsborough Mill

One the of most popular events on last year's UPLIFT calendar was Land art with landscape artist, James Brunt. James’ natural arrangements are followed by a huge online audience and have become a firm favourite amongst the Creative Recovery community. So back by popular demand we kickstarted the new season with sessions at Locke Park and Worsbrough Mill. Here's a little peak into how we got on...

James opens the sessions with “This is your opportunity to play!” And that is what we do. For a couple of hours we switch off, lose ourself in the outdoor space and focus our minds only on collecting materials from the Earth to use in creating some land art. The sessions are very chilled and organic. James offers participants the opportunity to work on a collaborative piece or to work individually or with one another. He notes how amazed he always is that people just go along with it, they naturally find their space and art happens.

It’s a lovely afternoon of connection, creativity and being amongst nature. 

Uplifters comment on how much they enjoy the session and the positive impact it has their mood and wellbeing:

“It’s been really mindful and therapeutic, sat here being in the moment, creating. It’s therapeutic to work through frustration and come out feeling better the other side.”

“We can hear the birds chirping, everybody’s chatting and friendly, its so relaxing. We could be sat in the house miserable but we’re out here and you can tell on everyone’s faces that we’re enjoying it.”

“I didn’t know what to expect but I’ve found land art very creative and fun. It’s been nice to connect with people and see their creations. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. I’m a nervous person and it’s brought me out of my shell.”

You can find out more about James’ work here: www.jamesbruntartist.co.uk

James' latest book, ‘Land Art: Creating Artworks in and with the Landscape’ published by Schiffer is out now, and available to buy on his ETSY Shop on his website.

Green UPLIFT 2023!

 

Following the success of last year, which saw a 20% increase in participant's well-being, Green UPLIFT is back for another season, and we’re already well underway with our jam packed programme of outdoor creative events, bringing a breath of fresh air to those involved.

For those that are new to the programme, Green UPLIFT is a special calendar of unique & memorable outdoor events, designed by artists to inspire and uplift. The calendar features 2/3 main events every month, taking place across the beautiful green spaces in and around Barnsley. There is a marvellous mix of Uplifts on offer, including, land art workshops, rewinding walks, creative camps, allotment socials, relaxing residential and lots more! Each Green UPLIFT is designed to build our connection and understanding of the natural environment, always with a creative twist! 

This year’s programme includes the addition of two new regular outdoor groups - the allotment group and the walking group.

Whether you’re a green fingered enthusiast or just enjoy the chance to be outdoors connecting with others, uplifters are welcome to join us at the Shaw Lane allotments where we are thrilled to own a little patch of a larger Community Allotment managed by Barnsley YMCA.  We have a weekly group that meets every Wednesday 12 - 3pm. 

For those who like to ramble, we have a weekly walking group that takes place every Friday afternoon, alternating between easy park strolls and more challenging walks (around 4-5 miles). It’s a great opportunity to get your steps in whilst having a chat with some lovely folk in the fresh air. 

The Green UPLIFT programme is designed for people who are struggling, who may be experiencing low mood, stress and are fed up of four walls and in need of company and a boost. If this sounds like something you’d like to get involved in it’s easy to register, just text ‘Go Green’ to 07916 282 064 and a member of our team will ring you back to complete a 10 minute form. You will start receiving information about the Green UPLIFT Programme and the events on offer. 

We'd love to see you on an UPLIFT event soon!

UPLIFT your spirits, rewild your mind, only the curious have something to find!