Forest Flourish Wellbeing Walks
Supporting children starts with supporting the adults who care for them.
At Forest Flourish, I spend my days supporting children and young people with their emotional wellbeing through creative and nature-based approaches. But over time, I've realised something important...
Parents need support too.
Whether you're navigating the teenage years, supporting a child with anxiety, helping a neurodivergent child through the school system, or simply trying to balance the everyday demands of family life, it can sometimes feel like you're carrying an enormous amount on your own.
As a mum myself, I understand.
I know what it's like to worry about your child, to wonder if you're doing the right thing, and to try to stay calm and supportive even when things feel overwhelming. Sometimes, just knowing that someone else understands can make all the difference.
That's why I'm exploring the idea of Forest Flourish Wellbeing Walks.
These would be completely free, relaxed walks for parents to come together in nature. There would be no expectations, no pressure to share, and no judgement—just an opportunity to slow down, breathe, walk, chat if you want to, and connect with other parents who understand the ups and downs of family life.
Research consistently shows that spending time in nature can have a positive impact on our mental health and wellbeing. Fresh air, gentle movement and meaningful conversation can all help us to feel calmer, more connected and better able to cope with life's challenges.
Who are the walks for?
These walks are open to any parent or carer who feels they would benefit from spending some time outdoors with others.
You might be:
Supporting a child with anxiety.
Parenting a neurodivergent child or young person.
Finding the teenage years challenging.
Adjusting to big life changes or school transitions.
Feeling isolated or overwhelmed.
Simply looking to meet other parents who 'get it'.
You don't need to be experiencing a crisis to come along. Sometimes it's enough just to have a chance to reset.
Can children come too?
I know that for some families, particularly those supporting neurodivergent children or children experiencing anxiety, being separated from a parent isn't always possible or feels too difficult.
Because of this, I'd love to hear what would work best for families.
Depending on interest, I may offer:
Parent-only wellbeing walks.
Family-friendly walks where children and young people are welcome to come along.
The aim is to create something that genuinely meets the needs of local families.
Why are these walks free?
Quite simply, because I believe everyone deserves access to support and connection.
These walks aren't therapy sessions, and there is no expectation for you share anything you don't want to. They are simply an opportunity to spend time in nature with people who understand, while building a supportive local community.
If, through getting to know Forest Flourish, you later decide that your child or young person could benefit from one-to-one support, I'd be delighted to help. But there is absolutely no obligation—these walks are valuable in their own right.
I'd love your feedback.
As these walks are still in the planning stage, I'd really appreciate hearing your thoughts.
Would you be interested?
Would daytime or evening walks suit you better?
Would you prefer parent-only walks, family walks, or a mixture of both?
If this sounds like something you'd enjoy, please get in touch using the Contact Form, the social media posts or by sending me a message via my Facebook and Instagram pages. Your feedback will help shape the Forest Flourish Wellbeing Walks into something that truly supports local families.
I hope to see you on a woodland path soon.
Sophie
Founder, Forest Flourish