nicola at company of nature
Welcome! Company of Nature supports wellbeing and sustainability through nature
connection. It offers forest bathing walks and nature-based activities in the
beautiful woodlands and natural areas of Bedfordshire. Company of Nature also
offers events, advice, training and packages to support organisations’ work in
wellbeing and environmental engagement through nature. It was set up by Nicola
Scholfield who has a background in ecology and sustainability and is a qualified
forest therapy guide. my story I’ve felt a deep connection with the natural
world for as long as I remember. I grew up in rural Bedfordshire and have fond
childhood memories of roaming the countryside and visiting beautiful natural
places. My love of the wilds led to a degree in ecology and later a masters
degree in leadership & sustainability. I’ve enjoyed sharing my love and
understanding of nature in many ways since then. I spent many years in the
business and charity sectors delivering projects and campaigns to engage people
in environmental issues. During this time I experienced first hand the crucial
role that nature can play in supporting our mental health and wellbeing. I also
developed an understanding of how connecting with nature not only helps our
wellbeing but also encourages us to value and care more for nature. I have
trained as a Forest Therapy Guide through Nature & Therapy UK, and guide shinrin
yoku (forest bathing) and natural mindfulness walks. I also deliver nature-based
activities for groups and families in Bedfordshire for The Wildlife Trust. I’m
excited by the potential of nature connectedness to support not only our
wellbeing, but to encourage the positive actions we need to restore the natural
world. I set up Company of Nature to help us restore our relationship with the
natural world – to benefit both people and planet. I believe that at the heart
of our own wellbeing is a thriving and nourishing planet. We live in the company
of nature; we are part of nature and it is part of us. Today I live and work in
and around the beautiful Greensand Country of Bedfordshire, and feel very much
at home among its heaths and woodlands.