Lighten the Dark

‘Lighten the Dark’ is an opportunity for women to reclaim the dark as a safe space for walking, nature connection and mindfulness. We seek to carve out a place of safety, community and courage, to empower women to step out into the winter evenings, feeling the support of the ground beneath their feet and their sisters at their back. Within this container, we also take the opportunity to choicefully and safely share those aspects of ourselves which we may keep hidden in the shadows. The fears, regrets, anger and sadness that have us hiding our full natures, living our lives muffled, cautious and ashamed. Through lightening the darkness, we lessen the hold these shadows have over our lives. By speaking their name, we bring our fears into the light. By listening to others’ stories, whispering softly, “me too”, we learn that the power of our light can liberate us, our sisters and all women. This is an evening eco-therapy workshop for women, designed to increase our confidence, self-expression and enjoyment of the dark. To reclaim the dark as a safe, playful and powerful space for women. Together we step into confidence with being outdoors at night in nature, and learning to sit comfortably with our own metaphorical ‘darkness’. Programme: The workshop starts with a check in and a solo sit spot in a natural green space. We then take a slow guided walk, during which we make use of aspects of nature to illuminate our own feelings and engage in self-reflection and a shared dialogue. We use nature connection exercises and mindfulness practices to deepen our sense of relationship to the darkness. After the walk, we circle up around the fire, using nature-inspired storytelling to give voice to our truth, and to explore the common threads that connect our experiences as women. Deep listening, poetry, ritual and silence will support you to engage with the symbolism of the darkness on your own terms. You’ll leave feeling inspired, contemplative and held in your relationship with the darkness. Equipment: Wear walking boots and bring warm, waterproof clothes, a hot drink and a torch. Route: Grassy footpaths and unmade tracks. Difficulty: Nourishing; walking distance 2 miles, easy terrain, slow pace. Cost: £50 per workshop / £140 for series of 3. Dates: You are encouraged to book for all 3 sessions, to get the most out of this journey and build a sense of community with the group. Saturday 20th September Saturday 18th October Saturday 15th November