WELL Course

WELL Course. Run only once per year, this outdoor activity programme offers an opportunity to connect with nature, explore beautiful locations in East Lothian and meet some lovely people. 

The group got along well, sharing knowledge and working together.

An inspirational Flower Arranging Workshop

Flowersmith Ruth Alder, had a fun and inspirational workshop with us, where we put together some beautiful flower arrangements on willow. In her floral arrangements Ruth Alder uses seasonal and locally sourced flowers as she describes it “in a rather wild abundant and very naturalistic approach”.

It was lovely to embrace our creativity and connect with nature in a friendly group.

Enjoying beautiful Amisfield Walled Garden

There are some beautiful floral borders, lots of greenery, and historic pavilions in Amisfield Walled Garden. We are full of appreciation to the team of dedicated volunteers keeping this garden in such wonderful shape.

Alasdair from the serene Amisfield Walled Garden taught us about flower and plant identification. Thanks to Alasdair, our group learned about gardening and how to make compost. We also made some biodegradable bird feeders that were enjoyed by the garden’s resident birds.

Wildlife learning session with a countryside ranger in Gullane

In Gullane, countryside ranger Meryl shared her knowledge about the local wildlife. Meryl who has a degree in marine biology and a wealth of knowledge of wildlife and the countryside, shared her enthusiasm for natural history and enhanced our experience by helping us rediscover our enthusiasm for the natural environment.

WELL Course Foraging Lessons

We had foraging lessons with Changes Project Development Co-ordinator, Kelly.

Foraging as a hobby is becoming more and more popular as a result of the rising demand for environmentally friendly solutions and the desire to reduce plastic waste.

The act of foraging fosters a connection between humans and nature. Foraging is a fantastic way to spend time outside, get exercise, and discover new locations.

It was informative and fun. Thank you for sharing your knowledge, Kelly!

Scottish Seabuckthorn

What is seabuckthorn? Seabuckthorn is a prickly shrub that grows along sand dunes on the East Coast of Scotland. Its bright orange berries are rich in vitamins! And sea buckthorn juice is delicious.

As part of the WELL course we visited Kirstie, Aiden and Teal their dog over at Seabuckthorn Scotland CIC to learn about the history of seabuckthorn and to help make some seabuckthorn juice.

All of this has been interwoven with some mindful wanders, open conversations about mental health, splashing in the sea, chattering and laughter.