Hello friends, new and old. Welcome to my Substack. It’s the place to keep in touch with me, find out about my offerings and see what I’m up to in nature. This is where i will post the dates and info for my Nature Connection and Forest School sessions, and also where i will talk about what’s inspiring me and show you how i engage with Nature and my local landscape.
Welcome, my name is Jo and i live in the beautiful coastal town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, in Northumberland. I’m a single mum of 2 boys, and over the last ten years i have been a practicing textile artist, a creative workshop leader, i had an Etsy shop where i sold handmade eco-friendly clothing, I’ve worked in a care home, been a freelance gardener, and been involved in many gardening, foraging or art-related community projects.
For the last 2 years I’ve been training as a Forest School Leader, and have now submitted my portfolio and await my qualification. Recently I’ve also been selling my wildcrafted herbal remedies, leading womens’ circles, nature connection groups, and facilitating nature songs, foraging and tea ceremonies at retreats and gatherings.
My inspiration comes from Nature, particularly the plants that grow in the landscape directly around me - the weeds in the pavement cracks, the trees in the local park, the plants that cling to the cliff faces at the beach. I’ve been excited by plants since i was a child and in recent years my interest has grown and grown, especially if i find out about a plant with some kind of use to humans - as food, medicine, colour, or fibre.
I’m held by Nature when I’m struggling with life’s day-to-day stresses, i turn to Nature when i need guidance, inspiration or comfort, i play in Nature, celebrate in Nature. My practice often looks like walking, but much more is happening - I’m watching the seasons change, meeting birds and animals, getting messages from trees and plants, and collecting and harvesting things. Pebbles for my windowsill, sprigs of flowers for my table, feathers for a creative project, food for my plate, leaves for my teapot, medicine for my body.
This way of living is my passion and it’s brought me closer to myself, supporting and nourishing me in ways that our culture and society can’t. And this is what i want to bring to you; the guidance of someone a few steps ahead on the journey. Thankyou for being here, reading this!
See you in the woods,
Jo
The comfrey poultices worked well on my sprained calf muscle. Thanks for the advice.
I can’t wait to read more, Jo. I love your photos!