Pollinating Wellbeing Network
We would like to invite you to our workshop
Towards collaborative, nature based learning and mentoring for communities:
the 8 Shields Model
Monday 30th April, 10am-1.00pm, Centre for Stewardship, Falkland Estate, Fife.
This workshop will provide an introduction to the 8 Shields model, intellectually and experientially. We will examine this model’s potential as a framework for enhancing community wellbeing and explore its practical application.
What is 8 Shields?
8 Shields is a model for community organising and promotion of wellbeing that has developed from indigenous cultures, and inspired, a global movement. It has a 30-year track record of strengthening personal wellbeing, creating healthy leadership, and supporting collective engagement in nature-based, inter-generational communities around the world. In helping to develop a legacy of individual health, community wellbeing, and enhanced connection to nature, self and community, it is seen as one means of addressing both our current ecological crisis and the widespread loss of healthy connective culture in the West.
8 Shields draws on the universal pattern languages based in natural systems, legacies of ancient wisdom cultures, as well as contemporary scientific research on resilience. It offers a modern framework with practical tools and processes to address what Richard Louv terms nature deficit disorder, and empower current and future generations to live in harmony with each other and the natural world.
The model helps us understand what neurobiologist Darcia Narvaez terms our ‘evolved nest’ practices through which species can optimize their neuro-biological development and foster ‘species typical individuals’. Connection with nature and mentoring underpin the model. Where these aspects are in place, we see a number of common attributes of wellbeing arising in populations and a propensity to a more ecocentric world view.
What will the workshop offer?
This facilitated workshop will provide an introduction to the 8 shields model, and experiential engagement with practices to facilitate connection with self, community and nature. We aim to nurture intellectual curiosity and synchronize use of heart, head and hand.
Who should attend?
Any individual with an interest in personal and community wellbeing or nature connection is welcome to attend. We envisage that this workshop will enable you to gain tools and practices to strengthen your personal growth and resilience, but also provide an approach and management model for those working in community groups or developing community, and enable those striving for nature conservation to inspire people in different ways.
How do I apply to attend this workshop?
If this is something you are interested in supporting or exploring then please come along and join us for the workshop. Please register through EventBright. Please note places are limited and the deadline for registration is Friday 20th April.