A new series of free wellbeing webinars has been launched to mark Mental Health Awareness Week (18th to 24th May).
The online talks are hosted by Ellen Mary, an expert in wellbeing and in particular how nature and gardening can improve health both physical and mental health. Ellen has been recognised as one of the Top 5 Women Influencers in Horticulture, and has previously given talks on wellbeing at events such as RHS Chelsea, RHS Chatsworth, Blenheim Palace Flower Show, Vegfest UK, The Landscape Show as well as talks in garden centres, local garden groups and for individual companies such as Peter Beale’s Roses. She has also produced videos for BBC News and the Royal Horticultural Society around the subject.
Ellen was due to speak at a series of events throughout the summer, but with these now being cancelled and with gardening and embracing nature, becoming so popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, she has taken them online – making them accessible to all.
“Coronavirus has meant isolation for so many people worldwide, which has had huge knock on effects for mental health and wellbeing. For many people, gardening and being able to get outdoors and enjoy nature, has become a daily highlight. To truly thrive we need to connect with the natural world and during times of isolation, that connection is highlighted even more,” commented Ellen.
She continued: “It’s been heart-warming and exciting to hear of so many people enjoying gardening, nature and growing their own food, and then reaping the wellbeing benefits of this. I want to celebrate this and help more people embrace it so will be delivering my talks still but online instead. The webinars will be information but relaxed, so you take part however you like – listen in with your camera off, join in on chat, or have your camera on and take part with other viewers. It’s up to you!”
The first hour long webinar will be on Friday 22nd May at 3pm (GMT) and in it Ellen will talk through how and why we are connected to the natural world and ways that we can all feel part of the planet together including plants and gardening of course but even more than that!
Future sessions will include “The Magical World of Nature & Plants”, “Plants & Nature for Wellbeing”, “Plants for Women’s Wellbeing” and “Growing your own for a Plant Based Diet”.
To sign up and to receive the webinar link, visit www.ellenmarygardening.co.uk/wellbeing