Investing in Wellness
Image from Alison Taylor at Antony Woodland Garden
There’s something restorative about collecting herbs and foliage. A quiet, intentional act that nourishes both body and spirit. Recently, I had the pleasure of wandering through the Anthony Woodland Garden with head gardener Alison Taylor. We gathered a variety of richly coloured hydrangea heads on a bright, early morning. These flowers will be dried and then stored, ready to bring texture, colour and a touch of wild beauty to my December wreath-making workshop
Each autumn I forage for holm oak, pine species, moss-covered branches, dried grasses and foliage that holds its shape and scent. Elements that become part of seasonal displays and wreaths, helping to bring the outside in. More than decoration they are a way of honouring the season and cultivating a deeper connection to the land around us.
Image from HeiKiwi
Engaging with plants for wellbeing offers a wide range of benefits. Research shows that having greenery indoors can enhance comfort and reduce cortisol levels. With stress and anxiety lowered, we often experience improved mood, sharper focus and a greater sense of calm and connection. Nature is not only a healer, but a teacher, grounding us in the present and inspiring growth.
As the days shorten and the light fades, many of us feel the emotional weight of the season. This is a natural response to reduced sunlight, colder weather and the slowing pace of life. Gathering and preparing herbs offers a gentle, grounding way to support mental health during this time. Investing in wellness practice encourages mindfulness, movement and a sense of purpose, easing feelings of stagnation and low mood.
Preserving berries and fruits from autumn into winter is another way we invest in our future wellbeing. For generations, people have gathered in times of plenty to prepare for leaner months. Autumn produce is rich in immune-supporting nutrients like Vitamin A and C and fibre for gut health. Saving these gifts for winter provides consistent nourishment and a tangible link to nature’s cycles.
If you’d like to explore these practices in person, I invite you to join me for one or both of my upcoming workshops. In the Winter Resilience Workshop you will learn how to support your immune and nervous systems through the colder months. We’ll create a power packed tea, oxymel and an infused vinegar together.
Get creative with hand picked foraged flora in my Winter Wreath Workshop where materials and hands-on guidance are provided to ensure a relaxed and enjoyable experience.
Sessions are open to all abilities and are designed to be inspiring, restorative and accessible. Groups are kept small therefore spaces are limited, so please get in touch soon to reserve your place or find out more.