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.