Foraging!

Foraging Adventures: Connecting with Nature in York.

This summer we enjoyed three mindful walks around the city of York. The group really enjoyed them and asked for more!

Last week however, we did something extra special and embarked on a journey of foraging, guided by the expertise of a local forager, Emma from Driffield.

Embracing the ethos of our Rise to Thrive programme, which aims to support individuals currently out of work in building confidence, this unique adventure blended mindfulness, nature, and community.

The Power of Connection

Many of the participants in our York walks have faced challenges in their lives and our mission has always been to cultivate a space where they can learn new skills and meet like-minded individuals.

After meeting Emma after delivering two training sessions for the Hey Smile Foundation, I knew Emma’s passion and knowledge would resonate with the group.

From the moment Emma arrived, her enthusiasm was infectious. Her deep understanding of nature and its edible offerings captivated our group. It wasn’t just about foraging; it was about the stories that each plant told, we were sometimes a bit hesitant to try new tastes but our confidence grew minute by minute.

Discovering the Art of Foraging

Our workshop began with a short introduction to the essentials of foraging—what to look for and, equally important, what to avoid. Emma emphasised the principles of sustainable foraging: always take what you need, leave the environment in the same—or better—state than you found it, and most importantly, make sure you can confidently identify any plant before you consume it. She said always refer to three different books and go by photographs rather than drawings. If in doubt ask an expert.

One of the most crucial aspects of foraging is ensuring that participants understand nature around them. From dandelions, often considered mere weeds, to plantain and nettles, Emma guided us on how to identify plants correctly. She passionately shared her knowledge, explaining how each plant can be used in cooking and its nutritional benefits. The excitement of discovering these treasures in our local spaces was so beneficial in allowing us to connect with our city, building a sense of connection not only to nature but also to ourselves.

Savour the flavour:

No foraging workshop would be complete without the joy of tasting, and Emma did not disappoint. She surprised us with delightful treats that she prepared herself, showcasing the potential of our foraged findings. We started with a steaming flask of bright green nettle soup, made simply with four ingredients: nettles, onions, water, and potato.

Alongside the soup, Emma introduced us to dandelion honey and elderberry syrup—both examples of how to transform foraged ingredients into sheer delights. As we sampled these unique concoctions, we asked questions and took photos. Participants shared their thoughts, admitting they had never imagined foraging could lead to such amazing tastes. This collective experience not only strengthened skills but also fostered a sense of community among the group.

Mindfulness in Nature

Foraging is inherently a mindful activity. It encourages us to slow down, observe our surroundings, and appreciate the present moment. As our group wandered through the green space, we realised that foraging is more than just gathering food—it’s a way to cultivate mindfulness.

The beauty of this experience was noticeable in the way our group interacted with one another. The shared joy of discovering edible plants and the excitement of new learning moments sparked conversations. Participants expressed how much they valued the opportunity to engage in a meaningful activity with others. The therapeutic aspect of being outdoors, coupled with connecting over a shared passion, created a supportive atmosphere that left everyone feeling uplifted.

The Future

The success of this initial workshop has set the stage for future collaborations with Emma. We are excited to explore more opportunities for foraging workshops, particularly in Scarborough. This partnership not only enriches our programme but reinforces the importance of local knowledge and skills that can empower our community.

We invite everyone interested in foraging or those looking to connect with nature and like-minded individuals to drop us a message. Emma’s passion for foraging has the potential to inspire others, and we look forward to expanding our reach even further. Our walks in York will continue to embrace new experiences, cultivate relationships, and build confidence among participants as we move through our mindfulness programme ahead.

Together, we can continue to thrive, savouring the beauty both in our surroundings and in each other. Do join us, as we take this adventure together.

For people in York and North Yorkshire who are not currently working drop us a message rebecca@mindfulphotograohy.org.uk