Newly established community interest company (CIC) Inna Nature, based in Hebden Bridge, recently showcased a preview of their pilot project For The Earth, a community art project which brought together the works of two cohorts in Hebden Bridge and Ovenden.
Inna Nature is a collective of artists, therapists and academics who work with vulnerable adults and young people on a guided journey into self-compassion, mindfulness and creative expression all while connecting to the world around us.
The theme of For The Earth is reciprocity and how can we show our gratitude and give back to our home.
Through a combination of nature connection practices, such as forest bathing, the therapeutic practice of immersing yourself in the natural environment by using your senses to take in the atmosphere, and various creative techniques and methods, Inna Nature believes that by empowering others and encouraging them to reconnect with the natural world, they will be able to lead happier and healthier lifestyles and be proud of their accomplishments.
Feedback from the 8-week-long programme showed just how beneficial the workshop has been for members of our Calderdale community, with many finding a new hobby, self-confidence and friendship.
One attendee said: “I suffer from social anxiety and severe depression, at some points, I’ve not been able to leave the house and meet new people.
It’s given me so much confidence and given me such a boost, it’s been something to look forward to every week. I’ve made some beautiful friends. It gives you a reason to get out of bed and it’s just, totally wonderful!”
A different attendee also commented on the ongoing support of Inna Nature staff and comments made at the exhibition, making them feel like they were able to achieve anything, finding they were more creative at things such as poetry and leaf printing than previously thought.
Inna Nature plans to hold more workshops in the near future, taking place in the Upper Valley and Ovenden, to encourage our communities to build on their relationships with the natural world and focus on their physical and mental well-being.
If you’re interested in taking part in one of Inna Nature’s upcoming workshops please contact Clare Donegan at innanaturecic@gmail.com or alternatively, you can visit their website at https://innanature.org/
