Workshops and Events

Workshops and Events Calendar 2019

Scroll down for our monthly list of unique talks, workshops and events in Northumberland – all centred on the ways we can boost and maintain the health of body and mind.

From short talks to day workshops on plant medicine, herbal first aid, wild food and brain boosters to botanical perfumery, art & writing for well-being, to a 10-day Foundation in Plant Medicine course. We often add new workshops through the year so call back soon. New events for 2019 – family days out at ‘Plant People’ and sensory evenings at ‘Cognition Boosters’ – 21-25th August.

To book just use the contact in each listing below. All events run independently to the physic garden.

Any questions – email us

January 2019

Wassailing Event

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Sunday 6th January 2019

Wassail is an Old English word meaning ‘be healthy’ or ‘be whole’ – that is ‘be hale and hearty’. Wassailing the trees in the orchard is an ancient custom to wake them up from their winter sleep and bring a bountiful crop of fruit in season. This tradition recognises the importance of our relationship to nature. This family event toasts a chosen apple tree with an offering of cider poured over its roots, making much noise by all present, then shares the wassail bowl. Dress according to weather, bring a torch and snacks if you wish, there are plenty of seats and benches to sit on, and lawns if you bring a rug.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (2pm – 4pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273

February 2019

Festival of Brigit Event

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Saturday 2nd February 2019

Celebrate the waning of winter’s power as the light of spring starts to increase. The goddess Brigit was revered by the northern tribes of Celtic Britain such as those living along the valley of the river Tyne. Brigit is the bright goddess, of creativity and healing, and her festival celebrates the increasing power of the sun in the spring months. In the Christian calendar this festival became ‘Candlemas’, when candles are lit at the beginning of February in honour of Mary, the mother of Christ.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (1pm – 3pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273

March 2019

Botanical Brain Boosters: Memory & Mood*

with Elaine Perry and Nicolette Perry

Friday 22nd March 2019

12.30pm – 2.30pm

Explore the ways in which plants can enhance your mind and mood in relaxed and friendly workshops facilitated by physic garden curator and neuroscientist, Professor Elaine Perry and pharmacognosist, Dr Nicolette Perry.

Here we focus on plants with clinical research to show they can help boost memory, focus and attention as well as have properties which protect brain cells. (Another Botanical Brain Booster session runs this October – ‘Calm & Sleep’).

With screen presentations, discussion and Physic Garden wanderings (weather permitting), you’ll engage with the plants and their essential oils, the odd brain bioactive chemical, as well as sample memory and mood boosting medicinal teas, tinctures and snacks.

Ways of taking the plants will be suggested, with a focus on safe botanical teas, essential oils and foods.

£15 info@dilstonphysicgarden.com 07879 533875.

Explore Your Goddess – Make 2019 a success

with Katarina Heuser

Saturday 23rd March 2019

10am -4pm

Whatever you wish to create, change or put into action in 2019 there is infinite help and inspiration for your path. Working with the energy of the goddess on a daily basis in my healing practise I wish to share with you techniques to easily tap into the goddess energy yourself. From practical to spiritual matters, relationships to self development, the goddess has many ways of expressing herself and sharing her knowledge.

Explore which goddess can help with your specific situation and how to call upon support. Join a shamanic journey to meet the goddess, gaining access to energy and discover powers for use in your daily life. You might even find several goddesses are answering your call.

You’ll receive a specifically attuned object which you can use day to day to feel nurtured and supported everyday. Set the tone for a spectacular 2019 and step into the power of All of who you are.

Katarina is a crystal healer, coach and reiki master and has walked the shamanic path for more than 15 years. katarinaheuser.com

£45 (£20 deposit) hello@katarinaheuser.com 07778 475478

Spring Equinox Event

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Sunday 24th March 2019

Celebrate the spring equinox, when day and night are once again equal and balanced. But unlike the autumn equinox which leads us to the darkness of winter, now we cross the threshold into the light of summer. It is now that the sun rises due east, and the spring equinox has long been associated with dawn, youth, and the morning star.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

11am – 3pm. Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

Timeless Retreats

with Sylvia Mather

Friday 29th March 2019

9.30am – 3pm

Leave technology behind and join this day retreat designed to refocus and rest the mind, take you away from technology and understand the positive impact of this upon you and your well being.

Throughout the day you can enjoy: self and group reflection, silent time, mindful garden walks, hypnotherapy , NLP and much much more.

Lunch and drinks provided, though you’re welcome to bring your own food if you have specific dietary requirements. As a registered provider for the North East Business Support Fund, you can save up to 40% on your ticket price. www.hummingbirdmindtherapy.uk.

£60. To book contact silvia@hummingbirdmindtherapy.uk 07455529443 or book through Eventbrite

A Spring Chakra Journey of Self Expression

with Silke Harvey

Sunday 31st March 2019

10am-4pm

A joyful celebration of long-awaited spring with chakra dancing, creative mindful meditation, chanting and walking in nature. Celebrate spring, rediscover yourself and give expression to our beautiful souls. Plant the seed of a herb and make a wish to symbolise new beginnings. Release your tension and stress in a safe and nurturing environment amongst a group of like-minded people. Each activity uncovers another layer to reveal your true self, leaving you relaxed, refreshed and full of new ideas and possibilities. www.1000petalswellness.com.

£45 . To book contact silke@1000petalswellness.com 07486 041111 Facebook or Eventbrite.

April 2019

Celebrating Spring Art Workshop

with artist-in-residence Sarah Greaves

Saturday 6th April 2019

10am – 4pm

Welcome spring by immersing yourself in glorious new growth at the Physic Garden. Use art materials to help record your observations, thoughts and reflections. This time of year can be poignant and full of potential and this day will give you the time and space to explore all the aspects of spring that have meaning for you.

Work indoors or out, choose between landscape work, or close examination of the perfect single blossom. Whatever you find or see we’ll work quietly on a painting or drawing, and then reflect on what we have experienced during the process.

No artistic skill needed – just the ability to look closely! Art materials and paper provided, though you may also like to bring your own. Tea & coffee provided, please bring a packed lunch and come prepared with warm clothes.

£30.00 sarah.a.greaves@gmail.com 01661 855111

Kid’s Potion Club

with Davina Hopkinson, Medical Herbalist

Thursday 18th April 2019 (can be enjoyed on its own or taken as part of a series of 4 seasonal Potion Clubs – other dates are Thursdays May 30th, July 25th and August 29th)

10am – 2pm

Discover more than the mandrake root in Harry Potter, with exciting adventures into the magic and medicine of plants at a real life Potion Club. Explore the awesome world of potions, lotions and magical herbs. Learn about the powerful plants that grow on your doorstep.

Enjoy and get creative with… Botanical Ointment Making | Make your own First-Aid Kit | Games & Scavenger Hunt |Herbal Art & Craft | Recipes to take home | Scintillating Storytelling. All activities take place in the fabulous surroundings of the Physic Garden. Suggested age 7-11 years. Please bring your own packed lunch.

£15 (£25 for two; £5 non-refundable deposit secures a place). For further info or to book please contact Davina davinaherbalist@gmail.com 01661 842897.

Explore the Healing Power of Crystals

with Katarina Heuser

Saturday 27th April 2019

10am – 4pm

Share my passion for crystals to help you connect with healing capacities with joy and ease. This workshop focuses on exploring crystals related to the chakra system – so you can easily utilise power for your wellbeing and create uplifting vibrations in your home and working environment.

Enjoy a day in the beautiful surroundings of Dilston Physic Garden, be cleansed and refreshed by the crystals we explore, as well as absorbing information in an easy to use and memorable way.

Join us and be inspired!

£45 (£20 deposit) hello@katarinaheuser.com or 07778 475478 katarinaheuser.com

Beltane Event

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Sunday 28th April 2019

Oh do not tell the priest of our art, for he would call it a sin,
But we’ve been out in the woods all night a-conjuring summer in;
And we bring good news by word of mouth, for women and cattle and corn,
For now is the sun come up from the South by Oak and Ash and Thorn.

Rudyard Kipling Oak and Ash and Thorn

Celebrate the creative nature of duality and the flowering of creativity in our lives. Beltane is a festival to celebrate our entry into the bright half of the year – a festival of creativity and abundance, when the “bel-fire” is lit in honour of the sun god Belinus on the occasion of his marriage to the flower maiden.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (5.30pm – 9.30pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

May 2019

Plant Spirit Animation Workshop

with artist & film-maker Leah Millar

Saturday 4th May 2019 (and on different topic on 31st May & 1st June)

10am – 4pm

A day workshop led by the shapes and patterns of the physic garden’s flora and inspired by the colours of Beltane. Completely without cameras, we’ll make a 16mm film animation that is imprinted with the colours and textures of the garden.

As the wheel turns towards summer we’ll use fallen petals, seed pods and old leaves to create image patterns and textures on black and white 16mm film. This historic process of creating photograms through contact printing was made famous with the still image by Man Ray. We’ll use the same principle to create lively animations which are bursting with the new season’s energy. We’ll develop our images in a pop-up darkroom before adding colour using paints and natural plant dyes. The workshop will end with an analogue projection of our film and celebratory late afternoon tea.

This is a hands-on and completely analogue session that allows direct contact with natural materials of image-making, physically connecting participants to both image and environment.

All materials are provided and digital copy can be provided after the session.

Leah Millar (b.1982, Belfast) is an artist and film-maker based in Newcastle. Her practice connects experience to environment through expressions of touch in experimental film, photography and performance. Her often site-specific work articulates ideas about agency, connection and the landscapes we create for ourselves from audiovisual media. She runs a small film-lab in Newcastle called Hands on Film and regularly teaches aspects of film-making and analogue photography in this space, as well as at various organisations and institutions including Newcastle University, Baltic, British Film Institute and Institute of Contemporary Arts (London) www.leahemillar.com www.handsonfilm.org

£50 . Booking essential, contact handsonfilmlab@gmail.com.

How to Improve Digestion with Herbs

with pharmacist Milena Kopkowska

Sunday 5th May 2019 (and on a different topic on 9th May and 6th June)

1pm – 4pm

The complex process of digestion depends on a fine balance in our digestive tract. Upsetting it means a lot of discomfort or even suffering, so it’s useful to know how we can help ourselves in a natural, herbal way.

This workshop is focused on medicinal plants regulating the work of stomach, liver and bowels. We’ll be talking about how the digestive tract works, how different herbs can influence it and what interventions are useful when. There’ll be some demonstrations and practical tips on how to make the useful herbal products as well as opportunity to ask questions about management of different conditions with herbal medicines. You can also stay after the talk if you would like to seek individual advice from me.

Cost £30. To book contact milena.kopkowska@gmail.com

Herbal Mouthwash – Not only for the Mouth

with pharmacist Milena Kopkowska

Thursday 9th May 2019 (and on a different topic on 5th May & 6th June)

1pm – 3pm

Discover herbs of astringent, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties and find out how helpful they can be in variety of conditions. We’ll be discussing 7 herbs commonly used in mouth and skin problems, looking at their amazing qualities and explaining how we can benefit from using them.

We’ll make a herbal mouthwash together and talk about all different ways in can be used, not just in the mouth. There will be some demonstrations and practical tips on how to make the useful herbal products as well as opportunity to ask questions about management of different conditions with herbal medicines. You can also stay after the talk if you would like to seek individual advice from me.

Cost £20. To book contact milena.kopkowska@gmail.com.

Writing For Wellbeing Workshop: Journalling for Personal Growth

with Laura Napran

Saturday 11th May 2019
10am – 1pm (half day course)
(Due to high demand, this workshop is repeated on 9 June 2019; another with a different theme also runs on Saturday 7th September 2019)

Journalling is a marvelous tool for encouraging your hopes and dreams, for offloading negativity and finding joy in everyday life. Join us for a morning of finding your own personal wisdom and exploring paths to positivity through creative and enjoyable writing activities.

There’s lots of benefits to be had doing one-off journalling at the workshop. But you may just find that it provides the motivation and tools to keep you writing regularly for your wellbeing – and fun! All this in the beautifully peaceful atmosphere of Dilston Physic Garden – a perfect place for mindful writing.

Remember – writing is good for you! You never have to read aloud what you’ve written. And all writing levels are welcome, you don’t even need any writing experience at all. Just bring a notebook and a pen, and your own wonderful enthusiasm to give it a go!

Laura Napran, PhD, is Writer in Wellbeing in Residence at the Physic Garden. She is an experienced teacher, writer, and storyteller, and a member of Lapidus (Literary Arts for Personal Development) and NAWE (National Association of Writers in Education). No previous writing experience is needed. Anyone can do it. You’ll be guided through each activity in a non-judgemental manner. Technique is unimportant — whatever you do is good for you.

£30. To book contact Laura contact@writingforwellbeing.co.uk or https://www.facebook.com/WritingforWellbeingUK/

Labyrinth Celebration

with Chris Headland

Saturday 11th May 2019

5pm – 9.30pm

Celebration and feasting in recognition of the labyrinth! Explore the traditions surrounding the labyrinth and celebrate a return of this ancient practice. Dating back thousands of years, labyrinths are seen as tools for divination and walking ones spiritual path. Make pathways to follow and meet fellow travellers. Please bring a vegetarian dish for a feast! and outdoor clothing.

£35 (deposit £20)

To book contact Chris 01670 222735 headland.christine@yahoo.co.uk

Chris is a sound healer, sacred drummer and dru yoga teacher www.peacepipecirclewoman.weebly.com

Wild Medicine Wild Food*

with medical herbalist Ross Menzies

Sunday 12th May 2019

10am – 4pm

A walk in the countryside will never be the same again! Discover how to identify, harvest and use many wild plants for medicine and food. Recognising plants and working with them to make medicines and foods is a wonderful journey, deepening your connection with the natural world. And being aware of the meaning of symptoms, and understanding which medicinal plants can be used to restore balance, is a life affirming adventure!

This day provides you with the skills, knowledge and confidence to start treating many minor ailments with plants and to use them to help you stay healthy and vital. Learn how to identify medicinal plants, when to harvest them, which parts to use and how to process them in order to make a range of medicines. We’ll make an ointment and a tincture to take home, as well as other preparations, and we’ll explore some delicious and nutritious foods which are found in the wild.

Ross has been a practicing herbalist for 20years with clinics in Hexham and at his home in Hexhamshire and is an experienced teacher, passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. Hot drinks supplied, please bring your own lunch, waterproofs/ umbrella if it’s wet and a digital camera/sketch pad if you’d like to aid identification.

£55 (£25 deposit to secure a place). To book please email Ross rossherbalist@gmail.com or call

07762 244381 www.the-herbal-clinic.co.uk.

Plant to Perfume: A Day of Botanical Perfumery*

with Tanya Moulding

Saturday 18th May 2019

10:30am – 4pm

Perfumes are the feelings of flowers.” Heinrich Heine.

Lavender, lemon, rosemary, thyme, rose, jasmine, orange and clove are familiar plants and fragrances. Modern day perfumery traces its origins from humble beginnings – a simple burning of resin incense, the strewing of herbs, a splash of floral water or the scent of a pomander ball. Discover the origins of perfumery and the remarkable role of aromatic plants in this immersive one-day workshop.

Enjoy a hands-on, interactive day embracing the theory and creative art of botanical perfumery: Learn about the origins and history of perfume from Cleopatra to Chanel; Understand perfume vocabulary – the art of smelling and training the nose; Perfume structure – top, middle, base notes; Fragrance classifications; Secrets of blending & dilutions; and Safety and storage.

With lots of sampling and discussion, you’ll be guided on basic perfumery composition and blending to create your own alcohol-based natural perfume spray. Includes all materials, samples, equipment, your own finished 25ml spray perfume and detailed notes. Refreshments provided, but please bring your own lunch.

Tanya Moulding aka the Perfume Mistress, is a practising clinical aromatherapist, aromacologist, botanical perfumier and teacher and has taught historical perfumery at many English Heritage sites and local museums, and delivers public and corporate events on olfaction and botanical themes www.theperfumemistress.com.

£ 70 (£40 deposit; FPM students pay difference from £45).

To book a place, please contact Tanya 07811 177530 scent@theperfumemistress.com.

Macrophotography in the Physic Garden

with photographer David Taylor

Sunday 19th May 2019

10am – 4.30pm

A course with Northumberland photographer David Taylor. The grounds of Dilston Physic Garden are perfect for tranquil thought, reflection and, of course, photography! This workshop is dedicated to the art of close-up and macro photography using the flora and fauna found in and around the garden.

If you have a hankering to learn more about the subject of close-up and macro photography then these are the workshops for you. You don’t need any specialised equipment – cameras with close-up focusing facilities will be more than suitable. However, if you have a dedicated macro lens then bring that along. I’ll be bringing equipment such as extension tubes and close-up attachment lenses for those who want to try a more D.I.Y. approach to their macro photography.

The workshop is suitable for all levels of experience and ability, from beginners to more advanced photographers. The small group size (max. 6) enables David to devote ample time to each participant individually. Bring the camera equipment you already own with you. A tripod will be useful, but don’t worry if you don’t have one – David should should be able to lend you one for the workshop; please confirm with him on booking. www.davidtaylorphotography.co.uk/macro-photography

£75. To book email david@davidtaylorphotography.co.uk.

Essential Herbs Everyone Should Keep in their Medicine Cabinet*

with pharmacist Milena Kopkowska

Thursday 23rd May 2019 (this talk is repeated in July 2019)

1pm – 3pm

Herbs have served as effective remedies for common complaints for hundreds of years but lately their usefulness seems to be underestimated. I’d like to reverse this trend and empower you to take care of yourself and your family using safe medicinal plants.

This workshop gives you the basic knowledge about herbs used in every-day minor aliments and helps you to compose you own herbal household medicine cabinet. You’ll learn what to use, when and how to prepare it. There’ll be demonstrations and practical tips on how to make effective herbal products.

Cost £20. To book contact milena.kopkowska@gmail.com

Late May Art Workshop

with art therapist Sarah Greaves

Saturday 25th May 2019

10am – 4pm

Though seasonal rhythms become more unpredictable, May blossom continues to mark the arrival of early summer, its light filtered through the transparent, glowing, fresh leaves of newly invigorated trees.

This art workshop gives an opportunity to bathe in the fresh light of May, and to record your observations, thoughts and reflections in whichever way you choose. The flexible day allows time and space for you to have quiet time alone in the physic garden, or to spend time with others, sharing thoughts and experiences of this magical time of the year.

No artistic skill needed – just the ability to look closely, to be open, and perhaps to be a bit adventurous with the materials. Art materials and paper provided, but you might like to also bring your own. Tea & coffee provided. Please bring a packed lunch, and come prepared with warm clothes.

£30. To book contact Sarah sarah.a.greaves@gmail.com 01661 855111.

Kid’s Potion Club

with Davina Hopkinson, Medical Herbalist

Thursday 30th May 2019 (can be enjoyed on its own or taken as part of a series of 4 seasonal Potion Clubs – other dates are April 18th, July 25th & August 29th)

10am – 2pm

Discover more than the mandrake root in Harry Potter, with exciting adventures into the magic and medicine of plants at a real life Potion Club. Explore the awesome world of potions, lotions and magical herbs. Learn about the powerful plants that grow on your doorstep.

Enjoy and get creative with… Botanical Ointment Making | Make your own First-Aid Kit | Games & Scavenger Hunt |Herbal Art & Craft | Recipes to take home | Scintillating Storytelling. All activities take place in the fabulous surroundings of the Physic Garden. Suggested age 7-11 years. Please bring your own packed lunch.

£15 (£25 for two; £5 non-refundable deposit secures a place). For further info or to book please contact Davina davinaherbalist@gmail.com 01661 842897.

June 2019

Scents of Summer Candle Making Workshop

with Yvonne Collingwood and Phillippa Lee

Sunday 2nd June 2019 (also runs 01 Sept & on different themes Oct 12 & Nov 23)

1 – 4pm

This informative and fun 3 hour workshop, will give you the basic skills for creating your own naturally scented container candles to enjoy yourself or give away as a special gift. Using pure essential oils which invoke the ambience of summer months you’ll learn about the therapeutic effects that these scents have on your senses and use them to make nature wax candles in lovely amber apothecary containers.

WORKSHOP CONTENT Introduction to candle making and overview of different waxes and wicks; equipment needed for candle making; how to measure the correct amount of wax and fragrance; step by step process of making container candles; overview of essential oils and the therapeutic qualities; Break for refreshments and homemade cake!; walk around the Physic Garden to collect leaves and foliage; finish with beautiful personalised packaging and natural decorations. What you’ll take away – large apothecary candle, small travel apothecary candle, course notes and a new skill.

£40. yvonne@candlehygge.co.uk 07599 865796.

Timeless Retreats

with Sylvia Mather

Friday 7th June 2019

9.30am – 3pm

Explore how your creativity and focus improves, and your stress levels reduce, during this one day retreat. Research shows that reducing screen time improves all aspects of our overall health. Set in the beautiful Dilston Physic Garden this day explores how time and technology affect our everyday lives. Find out ways to reduce our screen time and appreciate the present moment and how valuable this time is.

Discover the concept and meaning of time. Learn how to be mindful of time and take this moment to focus yourself. Throughout the day you will have fun, learn and end the day with a tranquil relaxation session. Here’s some feedback from our past events to highlights the impact of this for your well being: “I had an amazing day at the Timeless Day Retreat. Since then I have been much mindful of how much time I spend on my phone and have made a conscious effort to use it less. I wish that this retreat was accessible to all teenagers and young people as technology is affecting people more than we realise”. “We both enjoyed it very much and what I can tell you is that I have become even more aware of just how much I don’t take a break from my mobile”.

Food and refreshments provided throughout the day, however if you have dietary requirements please feel free to bring your own supplies. Please arrive for 9.30 where we will give you a rundown of the days activities. Lunch is served around midday and we’ll finish by 3pm.

£25 silvia@hummingbirdmindtherapy.uk 07455529443 or book through Eventbrite

Celebrating Summer Art Workshop

with art therapist Sarah Greaves

Saturday 8th June 2019 (and another runs on 06 July)

10am – 4pm

These two mid-summer workshops (another runs 06 July) are a chance to draw and paint outdoors in bright summer sunshine – let’s hope! But even if it rains the Herbology House in the Physic Garden is the perfect place to observe whatever the weather and the garden offer us – growth, light and shadow, the perfection of a single leaf or blossom at the pinnacle of its existence.

The flexible structure of the day is designed to allow time and space for participants to have quiet time alone in the garden, or to spend time with others, sharing thoughts and experiences and to record observations, thoughts and reflections in whichever way you choose.

No artistic skill needed- honestly! – Just the ability to look closely, to be open, and perhaps to be a bit adventurous with the materials. Art materials and paper are provided, but you might like to bring your own, also. Tea & coffee also provided, but please bring a packed lunch, and come prepared with warm clothes – even though it will be midsummer!.

£30. sarah.a.greaves@gmail.com 01661 855111.

Writing For Wellbeing Workshop: Journalling for Personal Growth

with Laura Napran

Sunday 9th June 2019
10am – 1pm (half day course)

(Due to high demand, this is a repeat of the 11 May workshop; another with a different theme also runs on Saturday 7th September 2019)

Journalling is a marvelous tool for encouraging your hopes and dreams, for offloading negativity and finding joy in everyday life. Join us for a morning of finding your own personal wisdom and exploring paths to positivity through creative and enjoyable writing activities.

There’s lots of benefits to be had doing one-off journalling at the workshop. But you may just find that it provides the motivation and tools to keep you writing regularly for your wellbeing – and fun! All this in the beautifully peaceful atmosphere of Dilston Physic Garden – a perfect place for mindful writing.

Remember – writing is good for you! You never have to read aloud what you’ve written. And all writing levels are welcome, you don’t even need any writing experience at all. Just bring a notebook and a pen, and your own wonderful enthusiasm to give it a go!

Laura Napran, PhD, is Writer in Wellbeing in Residence at the Physic Garden. She is an experienced teacher, writer, and storyteller, and a member of Lapidus (Literary Arts for Personal Development) and NAWE (National Association of Writers in Education). No previous writing experience is needed. Anyone can do it. You’ll be guided through each activity in a non-judgemental manner. Technique is unimportant — whatever you do is good for you.

£30. contact@writingforwellbeing.co.uk or https://www.facebook.com/WritingforWellbeingUK/

Herbal Ways to Help Blood Circulation and Skin*

with pharmacist Milena Kopkowska

Saturday 15th June 2019 (talks on other topics run on 5th & 9th May)

1pm – 3pm

When blood vessels become weak they can swell or leak which has consequences in different parts of body, from skin to brain. When that happens it’s good to seal up and strengthen capillaries. There are a few herbs which can help with that and I’d like you to know more about them!

This workshop explores the way different herbs can influence blood circulation and explains how to use them to remedy a variety of conditions, from cuts and bruises, through to swollen ankles and problems with memory. There will be some demonstrations and practical tips on how to make the useful herbal products as well as opportunity to ask questions about management of different conditions with herbal remedies. You can also stay after the talk if you would like to seek individual advice from me.

£20. milena.kopkowska@gmail.com.

Summer Solstice Labyrinth Day

with Chris Headland

Sunday 23rd June 2019

10am – 4pm

Celebrate the fullness of summer. Dilston Physic Garden is a magical and beautiful place – where best to explore the magic of the summer solstice and develop a spiritual pathway. Please bring a vegetarian dish and outdoor clothing. Chris is a sound healer, sacred drummer and dru yoga teacher – peacepipecirclewoman.weebly.com.

£45 (£20 deposit by bacs) headland.christine@yahoo.co.uk 01670222735.

Summer Solstice Celebration

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Saturday 22nd June 2019

The Summer Solstice marks the time when the sun is at the height of its power – and nature’s response is a splendid display of colour and fragrance. This time is known in contemporary Druidry as ‘Alban Hefin’ which means ‘Light of the Summer Shore’.

Midsummer is the time when the tide of light has reached its high water mark – the time of greatest light, though also tinged with some sadness because from now on the sun’s strength will begin to ebb as we enter the waning year.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (6pm – 9pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

Keep Your Cool with Plant Allies for the Summer Months*

with medical herbalist Davina Hopkinson

Thursday 27th June 2019
10am – 3pm

Herbal medicine on your doorstep. A wonderful array of medicinal plants grow in the gardens, hedgerows, fields and woodlands around us – some of our best herbal allies are the weeds that we’re in such a hurry to clear from our gardens.

In this workshop we will be gathering and using some of these plants and “weeds” to make simple remedies to treat bites and stings, hay fever, sunburn and tummy upsets.
Also learn the benefits of simply eating some of these foraged leaves and see how good they can taste dressed with home-made herb infused vinegar.

Come and enjoy the process of harvesting and making your own herbal medicines to treat yourselves and your family and have the peace of mind of knowing exactly what’s in your medicine.

All materials provided.
Cost for the day is £50 (£10 non-refundable deposit necessary to secure place) including tea & coffee but please bring your own lunch.
To book – and for more information – contact Davina on 01661 842897 or email davinaherbalist@gmail.com

Plant Spirit Medicine*

with Ross Menzies Medical Herbalist and Katrina Padmore

Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th June 2019

10am – 4pm

Access sacred experience in your life more easily. Working with plants as living, evolved, complex beings and coming to them from a place of reverence, allows access to a deeper medicine. In this way plants can act as our allies and be profoundly helpful, not only for physical ailments, but also on our personal spiritual journey.

Develop your intuitive senses to work with plants for mind, body and spirit. During the weekend you’ll find your own plant ally to work with at this stage your in life’s journey and we’ll prepare an essence from your plant to take home and use. Using a range of practices, including dowsing and shamanic journeying, we’ll work with a number of our wonderful native medicinal plants and trees.

£110 (deposit £50 on booking). To book please contact Ross rossherbalist@gmail.com 07762 244381.

July 2019

Celebrating Summer Art Workshop

with art therapist Sarah Greaves

Saturday 6th July 2019 (and another runs on 08 June)

10am – 4pm

These two mid-summer workshops (another runs 08 June) are a chance to draw and paint outdoors in bright summer sunshine – let’s hope! But even if it rains the Herbology House in the Physic Garden is the perfect place to observe whatever the weather and the garden offer us – growth, light and shadow, the perfection of a single leaf or blossom at the pinnacle of its existence.

The flexible structure of the day is designed to allow time and space for participants to have quiet time alone in the garden, or to spend time with others, sharing thoughts and experiences and to record observations, thoughts and reflections in whichever way you choose.

No artistic skill needed- honestly! – Just the ability to look closely, to be open, and perhaps to be a bit adventurous with the materials. Art materials and paper are provided, but you might like to bring your own, also. Tea & coffee also provided, but please bring a packed lunch, and come prepared with warm clothes – even though it will be midsummer!.

£30. sarah.a.greaves@gmail.com 01661 855111.

A Summer Chakra Journey of Self Expression

Sunday 7th July 2019

10am-4pm

A light-hearted celebration of the carefree days of summer with chakra dancing, creative mindful meditation, chanting and walking in nature. Celebrate summer, rediscover yourself and give expression to our beautiful souls. Rediscover yourself and give expression to our beautiful souls.

Make a herb amulet to celebrate all you have achieved. Release your tension and stress in a safe and nurturing environment amongst a group of like-minded people. Each activity uncovers another layer to reveal your true self, leaving you relaxed, refreshed and full of new ideas and possibilities.

Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for dancing. All materials provided including tea & coffee but please bring your own lunch. www.1000petalswellness.com.

£45 . To book contact silke@1000petalswellness.com 07486 041111 Facebook Eventbrite.

Essential Herbs Everyone Should Keep in their Medicine Cabinet*

with pharmacist Milena Kopkowska

Saturday 13th July 2019 (this course is repeated in May 2019)

1pm – 3pm

Herbs have served as effective remedies for common complaints for hundreds of years but lately their usefulness seems to be underestimated. I’d like to reverse this trend and empower you to take care of yourself and your family using safe medicinal plants.

This workshop gives you the basic knowledge about herbs used in every-day minor aliments and helps you to compose you own herbal household medicine cabinet. You’ll learn what to use, when and how to prepare it. There’ll be demonstrations and practical tips on how to make effective herbal products.

Cost £20. To book contact milena.kopkowska@gmail.com

Indian Head Massage

with Simone Larraine

Sunday 14th July 2019

10am – 2pm

Indian Head Massage, also known as Champissage, has been practiced in India for over a thousand years and is a form of massage for relaxation that focuses on the head, neck, face, shoulders and upper arms. These are important centres in the body where tension can accumulate, resulting in headaches as well as neck, shoulder and back problems.

By combining physical massage with a more subtle form of energy work, concentrating on areas most vulnerable to stress and tension, IHM helps the body release stress, relieve tension and encourage the flow of the blood to re-energize every part of the body. The results are felt on a mental, physical and spiritual level.

This informal, interactive and fun workshop is for anyone wanting to learn practical massage skills for self help, treating friends and family, or if you’re looking for a career in holistic therapy. Treatments are received seated upright in a chair, fully clothed, with no special equipment. Take home a manual with all the information to do IHM at home for your friends, family – and for yourself. Please bring your own lunch.

£35. To book please contact Simone simone.auragold@yahoo.com 07708 005 266.

Healing Power of Crystals – Continue the Journey

with Katarina Heuser

Sunday 21st July 2019

10am – 4pm

Let’s get practical and explore crystals in our day-to-day life. Find your ‘default’ crystal – the one that’s always suitable in any circumstance. Discover new ways of using crystals you already have – bring them along and receive teachings and information for up to 3 crystals.

As part of the workshop you’ll also learn how to utilise crystals to support you with specific issues and areas in life where you would like some extra encouragement. Enjoy a day in the beautiful surroundings of Dilston Physic Garden, be cleansed and refreshed by the crystals we explore, as well as absorbing information in an easy to use and memorable way. Join us and be inspired!

Suitable for everyone – those new to crystals or those experienced. You can also purchase crystals and vibrational essences to add to your collection. Katarina is a coach and reiki master offering healing, meditation classes as well as workshops and has walked the shamanic path for more than 15 years.

£45 (£25 deposit) hello@katarinaheuser.com call 07778 475478, www.katarinaheuser.com

Children’s Potion Club

with medical herbalist Davina Hopkinson

Thursday 25th July 2019 (can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a series of 4 seasonal Potion Clubs – other dates are Thursdays April 18th, May 30th & August 29th 2019)

10am – 2pm

Discover more than the mandrake root in Harry Potter, with exciting adventures into the magic and medicine of plants at a real life Potion Club. Explore the awesome world of potions, lotions and magical herbs. Learn about the powerful plants that grow on your doorstep.

Enjoy and get creative with… Botanical Ointment Making | Make your own First-Aid Kit | Games & Scavenger Hunt |Herbal Art & Craft | Recipes to take home | Scintillating Storytelling. All activities take place in the fabulous surroundings of the Physic Garden. Suggested age 7-11 years. Please bring your own packed lunch.

£15 (£25 for two; £5 non-refundable deposit secures a place). For further info or to book please contact Davina davinaherbalist@gmail.com 01661 842897.

Festival of Lughnasadh Event

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Sunday 28th July 2019

Lughnasadh is a time of celebration and transformation for the harvest season. Now there is a sense of urgency, because the harvest has to be brought in and stored before summer’s end that others may be sustained and life continue.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (5pm – 9pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

August 2019

Plants of the Gods

with botanist and scientist George Wake

Thursday 8th August 2019

6.30 – 8.30pm

An evening discovering and discussing the roles that plants, containing neuroactive components, have played in stimulating the emergence of aspects of art, music, philosophy and, particularly religious belief systems.

A slide presentation and living examples of such ‘Plants of the Gods’ or ‘Entheogens’ as they are currently known, along with a talk and discussion by a lifelong student of the ethnology, chemistry, botany and cultivation of the plants.

£20. George shiftshaper1010@gmail.com.

Sound & Colour – Making our Hearts Sing

with Chris Headland

Sunday 11th August 2019

10am – 4pm

With live sound and colour from the physic garden, explore the ways in which nature helps us. Embrace some joy, peace and wonder in your life.

Please bring vegetarian food to share and outdoor clothing just in case.

£45 (deposit £20)

Contact Chris headland.christine@yahoo.co.uk 01670 222735

Chris is a sound healer, sacred drummer and dru yoga teacher www.peacepipecirclewoman

Meet your Inner Wise Woman – A mighty resourceful aspect of your psyche

with Katarina Heuser

Saturday 17th August 2019

10am – 2pm

Your inner Wise Woman is here to give you help with simple questions to profound insights – from relationships to practical situations in your day-to-day life.

Through meditation and other easy-to-use tools, be guided to your place of inner sanctuary, where all your knowledge, abilities and information of your life path are stored and readily available to you.

Be empowered to solve situations, communicate more easily and feel the connection with all that is around you. After the workshop you’ll have time for contemplation in the beautiful surroundings of Dilston Physic Garden.

Katarina offers healing, meditation classes as well as workshops and has walked the shamanic path for more than 15 years www.katarinaheuser.com.

£45 (£25 deposit) hello@katarinaheuser.com 07778 475478

Plant People

with TheLab

21st – 25th August 2019

11am – 4pm each day – please note during this event normal physic garden admissions do not apply

We welcome you to a secret garden, overgrown and brimming with plants, herbs, medicine and magic. Welcome to Dilston Physic Garden.

Join The Lab for a relaxed family event that sees the physic garden brought to life to tell a story of medicine and memory. Your family will discover how different plants improve memory and brain function. Along the way you’ll interact with a host of characters to help you uncover the science behind each plant.

We’re also featuring a scented installation by AVM Curiosities, which explores the history of medicine and memory. Founded in 2011, AVM Curiosities explores the relationship between art and the senses, championing the use of food and fragrance as artistic mediums. Projects range from museum exhibitions and sculptural installations, to interactive lectures and limited-edition confectionery.

With public interest in plants for health on the rise, this event focuses on the benefits that plants can bring to our lives. Dilston Physic Garden is the perfect place to unwind – included in the event ticket you can explore a 2 acre collection of 800 medicinal plants.

This event is brought to life with support from Oximorons Theatre Company.

£31 family ticket (2 adults, 2 children). Book your place – eventbrite

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Cognition Boosters

with TheLab

21st – 24th August 2019

7pm – 9pm each day (18y+ only)

We welcome you to a secret garden, overgrown and brimming with plants, herbs, medicine and magic. Welcome to Dilston Physic Garden.

Join The Lab for an evening with a difference that sees the garden transformed for you to experience the world of plants for memory and cognition. The brain is an amazing organ and our experiences of forgetting, déjà vu and recall will be examined using the sensory mediums of taste, touch, sound and aroma. You will discover the amazing properties of plants and how they can help us.

We’re also featuring a scented installation by AVM Curiosities, which explores the history of medicine and memory. Founded in 2011, AVM Curiosities explores the relationship between art and the senses, championing the use of food and fragrance as artistic mediums. Projects range from museum exhibitions and sculptural installations, to interactive lectures and limited-edition confectionery.

This event is brought to life with the support of Oximorons Theatre Company.

£35. 18+only. Book your place – eventbrite.

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Children’s Potion Club

with Davina Hopkinson, Medical Herbalist

Thursday 29th August 2019 (can be enjoyed on its own or taken as part of a series of 4 seasonal Potion Clubs – other dates are Thursdays April 18th, May 30th and July 25th)

10am – 2pm

Discover more than the mandrake root in Harry Potter, with exciting adventures into the magic and medicine of plants at a real life Potion Club. Explore the awesome world of potions, lotions and magical herbs. Learn about the powerful plants that grow on your doorstep.

Enjoy and get creative with… Botanical Ointment Making | Make your own First-Aid Kit | Games & Scavenger Hunt |Herbal Art & Craft | Recipes to take home | Scintillating Storytelling. All activities take place in the fabulous surroundings of the Physic Garden. Suggested age 7-11 years. Please bring your own packed lunch.

£15 (£25 for two; £5 non-refundable deposit secures a place). For further info or to book please contact Davina davinaherbalist@gmail.com 01661 842897.

Flower Essence Workshop: Healing the Chakras

with Phillippa Lee

Saturday 31st August 2019
10am – 2pm (half day course)

As the natural water extractions of flowers, flower essences are taken internally to help rebalance body, mind, emotions and spirit. On this practical workshop learn how to make your own flower essence, connect with the nature devas and explore the healing effect of flower essences, focusing on the chakras. Phillippa Lee is a flower essence and energy therapist.

£45 including drinks & cake and a flower essence to take away. To book contact Phillippa connectiongwithangels@gmail.com.

Introduction to Permaculture

with Wilf Richards and Mark Shipperlee

Date to be confirmed 2019 (two-day workshop)

9am – 4.30pm

This workshop is an introduction to permaculture design strategies. Explore some commonly used permaculture ethics & principles, the demonstration & practice of two design tools, a presentation of permaculture projects and some practical methods of permaculture gardening.

There’ll be a variety of teaching methods – discussions and practical. In the meantime if you wish to know more about what permaculture is then please explore the Permaculture Association website www.permaculture.org.uk. Hot drinks provided but please bring your own lunch.

£80 for both days with 2 concessionary places available.

For further information and to book email wilf.abundantearth@gmail.com or text 07906 439084 and I’ll phone you back.

September 2019

Scents of Summer Candle Making

with Yvonne Collingwood and Phillippa Lee

Sunday 1st September 2019 (also runs 02 June & on different themes Oct 12 & Nov 23)

1 – 4pm

This informative and fun 3 hour workshop, will give you the basic skills for creating your own naturally scented container candles to enjoy yourself or give away as a special gift. Using pure essential oils which invoke the ambience of summer months you’ll learn about the therapeutic effects that these scents have on your senses and use them to make nature wax candles in lovely amber apothecary containers.

WORKSHOP CONTENT Introduction to candle making and overview of different waxes and wicks; equipment needed for candle making; how to measure the correct amount of wax and fragrance; step by step process of making container candles; overview of essential oils and the therapeutic qualities; Break for refreshments and homemade cake!; walk around the Physic Garden to collect leaves and foliage; finish with beautiful personalised packaging and natural decorations. What you’ll take away – large apothecary candle, small travel apothecary candle, course notes and a new skill.

£40 yvonne@candlehygge.co.uk 07599 865796

Contemplative Art Workshop

with Physic Garden Artist-in-Residence Sarah Greaves

Monday 2nd September 2019

10am – 4pm

September is a time of glorious fruition and rampant growth, as plants peak before the gradual decline and decay of darker and colder times. Life can feel too full and too busy at times, to just “stand and stare.” But welcoming Autumn brings a chance to align ourselves to the rhythm of the seasons, to slow ourselves as the natural cycle moves towards winter, and a time of stillness and replenishment.

This workshop is an opportunity to give yourself time and space to immerse yourself in experiencing the Physic Garden at this beautiful time of year. “Staring”- observing – and absorbing and recording our impressions is an act of contemplation that can still the mind but also stimulate memories and reflections that can be incorporated into the art work as text, or images, if we wish.

Using whatever we find we’ll work quietly on a painting or drawing, and then reflect with others on what we have experienced during this process. No artistic skill needed!- Just the ability to look closely. Art materials and paper provided, but you might like to bring your own also. Tea, coffee and milk also provided, but please bring a packed lunch, and come prepared with warm clothes.

£30 sarah.a.greaves@gmail.com 01661 855111

Writing For Wellbeing Workshop: Opening up to Kindness

with Laura Napran

Saturday 7th September 2019
10am – 1pm (half day course)
(another with a different theme also runs on Saturday 11th May 2019)

Couldn’t we all use a bit of kindness? In this workshop, we’ll do activities to access that wellspring of kindness in each of us. We’ll discover ways to recognise kindness around us. Perhaps we’ll find ideas to commit random acts of kindness. And certainly, we’ll learn how to be more kind towards ourselves.

Join us for some gentle writing activities in the gentle atmosphere of Dilston Physic Garden. No previous writing experience needed, all writing levels welcome. You never have to read aloud anything you have written. Just come and give it a go and enjoy this beautiful venue with like-minded and friendly people. Laura Napran, PhD, is Writer in Wellbeing in Residence at the Dilston Physic Garden. She is an experienced teacher, writer, and storyteller, and a member of Lapidus (Literary Arts for Personal Development) and NAWE (National Association of Writers in Education).

£30. To book contact Laura contact@writingforwellbeing.co.uk or https://www.facebook.com/WritingforWellbeingUK/. www.writingforwellbeing.co.uk.

Autumn Harvest Remedy Making: Botanicals to Boost you through Winter*

with Davina Hopkinson (Medical Herbalist)

Thursday 12th September 2019
10am – 3pm

In autumn, nature provides us with a vibrant array of plants, berries and roots that we can use to help fight off and treat those winter coughs and colds.

Learn from local medical herbalist Davina how to gather and use this glorious autumn harvest to make your own winter remedies, including cough syrups, honey infusions, tinctures and salves.

Come and enjoy the process of harvesting and making your own herbal medicines to treat yourselves and your family, and have the peace of mind of knowing exactly what’s in your medicine

All materials will be provided.
Cost for the day is £50 (£10 non-refundable deposit to secure your place) includes tea & coffee but please bring your own lunch.
For more info., or to book, email Davina davinaherbalist@gmail.com or phone 01661 842 897

Eco-Dying and Printing

with Glynis Rose

Friday 14th & Saturday 15th September 2019

(two-day workshop) 10am-4pm

This two-day course introduces what is meant by eco printing, using plants and minerals to print directly onto a surface using natural ﬁbres (sometimes recycled) such as paper, silk, cotton, linen and wool. It’s a wonderful way of making beautiful original designs and patterns naturally using plants that grow locally.

Taking meditative walks round the physic garden and nearby country lanes to forage for foliage that we can use to print with, we’ll experiment by printing on paper, using our collected treasure to help us get to know some of the different techniques and effects. We’ll also incorporate some methods of natural dying. We’ll then move on to printing on silk and other natural ﬁbres and at the end of the two days you can go home with your own unique samples and a completely original silk scarf.

Places limited to 6 participants. Please bring your own lunch, notebook and an old shirt/apron.

£110 including all materials (£50 deposit) glynisrose@gmail.com 07989 737865

Labyrinth: Autumn Equinox

with Chris Headland

Sunday 22nd September 2019

10am – 4pm

Exploring the labyrinth whilst celebrating the wisdom of the heron (one of whom lives in the river just by the physic garden). In Celtic tradition the heron is seen as a messenger of the gods. Explore the attributes that the heron will give us for our path forward, working with the beautiful labyrinth to aid us in our journey.

Please bring vegetarian food to share and outdoor clothing.

£45 (deposit £20)

To book contact Chris headland.christine@yahoo.co.uk 01670 222735

Chris is a sound healer, sacred drummer and dru yoga teacher www.peacepipecirclewoman.weebly.com

Celebrate the Autumn Equinox

with Victor Ball, Interfaith Minister

Sunday 22nd September 2019

At the time of the Autumn Equinox, day and night are once again equal and balanced. But unlike the Spring Equinox when we moved into the light of summer, now we cross a threshold to the darkness of winter and the magical powers of the stars and the inner realms. At this turning of the wheel of the year we will celebrate the mystery of the lengthening of night and the rising of the evening stars.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (5pm – 8pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

Healing Power of Crystals

with Katarina Heuser

Saturday 28th September 2019

10am – 4pm

Be inspired to create a new and refreshing ambience at home and have simple tools readily available in your daily life. Explore crystals to support you, in easy-to-use and practical ways, to nurture & relax, uplift & rejuvenate, balance & focus, protect & cleanse as well as to manifest dreams. Bring three of your favourite crystals, discover new ways to use them and purchase crystals and essences to add to your collection. Enjoy a day in the beautiful surroundings of the Dilston Physic Garden. Join us and be inspired! Suitable for everyone, those experienced or those new to crystals. Katarina is a Life Coach and Reiki Master offering healing, meditation classes as well as workshops and has walked the shamanic path for more than 15 years. www.katarinaheuser.com

£45 (£25 deposit) hello@katarinaheuser.com 07778 475478

Autumn Chakra Journey of Self-Expression

Sunday 29th September 2019

10am-4pm

A thankful celebration of plentiful autumn with chakra dancing, creative mindful meditation, chanting, and walking in nature. Celebrate autumn, rediscover yourself and give expression to our beautiful souls.

Pick an apple and give thanks for all you have harvested. Release your tension and stress in a safe and nurturing environment amongst a group of like-minded people. Each activity uncovers another layer to reveal your true self, leaving you relaxed, refreshed and full of new ideas and possibilities. www.1000petalswellness.com.

£45 . To book contact silke@1000petalswellness.com 07486 041111 Facebook Eventbrite.

October 2019

Botanic Brain Boosters: Calm & Sleep*

with neuroscientist Elaine Perry and pharmacognosist Nicolette Perry

Friday 4th October 2019

12.30pm – 2.30pm

Explore the ways in which plants can enhance your mind and mood facilitated by physic garden curator, Professor Elaine Perry and pharmacognosist, Dr Nicolette Perry.

Here we focus on plants with clinical science to show they help us stay calm, lower anxiety & stress and boost sleep quality and length. (Another Botanical Brain Booster session runs in March focused on improving memory and mood).

With a variety of screen presentations, discussion and physic garden wanderings (weather permitting), engage with the plants, their essential oils, the odd bioactive chemical, as well as sample calming medicinal teas, tinctures and foodstuffs.

£15 info@dilstonphysicgarden.com o7879 533875.

Meditative Stitch and Mend

with Glynis Rose

Saturday 5th October 2019

10am-5pm

Taking inspiration from the ancient hand embroidery techniques of boro and kantha, we will stitch and mend with what we already have, repurposing old textiles, re-piecing fabrics and building up texture with stitch.

We’ll take our time, whilst being inspired by and enjoying the calming environment of the physic garden. Harnessing the rhythmic repetition of running stitch invites us not to produce or perfect, but to be still.

£50.00 including all materials (£15 deposit) glynisrose@gmail.com 07989737865.

Contemplative Art Workshop

with Sarah Greaves Art Therapist

Monday 7th October 2019

10am – 4pm

Dock leaf by Sarah Menin

“ I saw a yellow one recently. It was a little green. It was decayed at the edges. It was blown by the wind…”

“What is this? An allegory?”

“N-No”, Kirilov replies. “I am not speaking of an allegory, but of a leaf, only a leaf.”

Dostoyevsky, The Possessed.

Life can feel too full, too busy at times, to just “stand and stare.” But the approach of Autumn brings a chance to align ourselves to the rhythm of the seasons, to slow ourselves as the natural cycle moves towards winter, and a time of stillness and replenishment.

This workshop is an opportunity to have time and space to find peace in contemplation, and to really look at what is happening in the Physic Garden at this time of year. Using whatever we find we will work quietly on a painting or drawing, and then reflect with others on what we have experienced during this process.

No artistic skill needed- honestly! Just the ability to look closely. Art materials and paper provided, but you might like to bring your own also. Tea, coffee and milk also provided, but please bring a packed lunch, and come prepared with warm clothes.

£30. To book or for any queries email Sarah at sarah.a.greaves@gmail.com or phone 01661 855111.

Scents of Autumn Candle Making Workshop

with Yvonne Collingwood and Phillippa Lee

Saturday 12th October 2019 (runs on different themes Jun 02/ Sept 01 & Nov 23)

1 – 4pm

This informative and fun 3 hour workshop, will give you the basic skills for creating your own naturally scented container candles to enjoy yourself or give away as a special gift. Using pure essential oils which invoke the ambience of autumn months you’ll learn about the therapeutic effects that these scents have on your senses and use them to make nature wax candles in lovely amber apothecary containers.

WORKSHOP CONTENT Introduction to candle making and overview of different waxes and wicks; equipment needed for candle making; how to measure the correct amount of wax and fragrance; step by step process of making container candles; overview of essential oils and the therapeutic qualities; Break for refreshments and homemade cake!; walk around the Physic Garden to collect leaves and foliage; finish with beautiful personalised packaging and natural decorations. What you’ll take away – large apothecary candle, small travel apothecary candle, course notes and a new skill.

£40. yvonne@candlehygge.co.uk 07599 865796.

Festival of Samhain Event

with Victor Ball

Sunday 27th October 2019

Samhain (summer’s end) is a festival of remembrance and the honouring of our ancestors. It is said that at Samhain the veil that separates the worlds is at its thinnest – so on this night of wonder and magic the ancestral spirits join us in a sacred feast. As the cold of winter begins to strip the leaves from the trees, this is a meditation on what is passing and what, in our lives, we need to let go of.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time to be confirmed (5pm – 9pm). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

November 2019

Roots Medicine*

with medical herbalist Jill Schnabel

Saturday 2nd November 2019

10am – 4pm

An essential workshop to discover the healing power of autumn plant roots and what they can do for your health. Did you know that in autumn the active chemicals in certain plants move down into their roots? From dandelion and burdock to the mysterious aromas of elecampane, to the deep wound-healing qualities of comfrey and sleep-inducing powers of valerian.

Explores a range of plants long valued for the medicinal properties of their roots. Get involved in harvesting medicinal roots and try out ways of processing and using them to create some powerful herbal remedies.

£45 (plus £3-£5 on the day for materials). Please bring your own food and a torch! Hot drinks provided. To book email jill.schnabel8@btinternet.com

Children’s Soap Making Workshop*

with Yvonne Collingwood

Saturday 16th November 2019

2 – 3.30pm

Join Yvonne from Moon & Stars for a soap making workshop! She’ll be sharing the process of making melt and pour soap with soap bases, essential oils, powders and seed & flowers for texture and colour. The melt and pour soap making technique is safe for both children and adults to use at home, and it’s perfect as a fast, handmade and natural gift.

In this workshop, get hands-on practice to produce several soaps, using traditional moulds or moulds of hearts, unicorns, stars and more. You’ll finish off your soaps with lovely packaging to take home and use yourself or to give away as a very personal gift!

All children must be accompanied by an adult (adults can help children create beautiful soaps or can join in themselves by making soaps at an extra cost).

£20 per child. Slots are limited to 10 children per session.

07599 865796

Scents of Winter Candle Making Workshop

with Yvonne Collingwood and Phillippa Lee

Saturday 23rd November 2019 (runs on different themes Jun 02/ Sept 01 & Oct 12)

1 – 4pm

This informative and fun 3 hour workshop, gives you the skills for creating your own naturally scented container candles, to enjoy yourself or give away as a special gift. Using pure essential oils invoking the ambience of winter months, learn about the therapeutic effects that these scents have on your senses and use them to make nature wax candles in lovely amber apothecary containers.

The workshop includes an introduction to candle making, an overview of different waxes & wicks and the equipment needed for candle making; how to measure the correct amount of wax and fragrance; step by step process of making container candles; overview of essential oils and the therapeutic qualities; a break for refreshments and homemade cake!; walk around the Physic Garden to collect leaves and foliage; finish with beautiful personalised packaging and natural decorations. What you’ll take away – large apothecary candle, small travel apothecary candle, course notes and a new skill. Please bring a torch!

£40. yvonne@candlehygge.co.uk 07599 865796.

December 2019

Astronomy

with Gary Fildes

Date to be confirmed December 2019

7pm – 10.30pm

The skies over Dilston Physic Garden are wide and dark – perfect for an evening exploring our Universe. Gary is the Founder Director of Kielder Observatory and will lead an introduction to astronomy. Under Gary’s expert tuition you will see far out in time and space, taking in star clusters, nebulae and galaxies. He will tell a story of science and wonder which takes us from what we can see with the naked eye all the way out to the furthest regions of the Universe! Gary Fildes is a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society and was recently awarded an honorary Masters degree in recognition of his outstanding achievements in astronomy. £25 Adults, £65 Family, £20 Concessions. Please bring a torch!

A Winter Chakra Journey of Self Expression

Saturday 7th December 2019

10am-4pm

A peaceful celebration of winter with chakra dancing, creative mindful meditation, chanting and walking in nature. Celebrating winter and rediscover yourself and give expression to our beautiful souls.

Read poems or tell a spooky or significant tale by candle light whilst enjoying a mug of delicious hot chocolate from the garden shop and a mince pie. Release your tension and stress in a safe and nurturing environment amongst a group of like-minded people. Each activity uncovers another layer to reveal your true self, leaving you relaxed, refreshed and full of new ideas and possibilities.

Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for dancing. All materials provided including tea & coffee but please bring your own lunch and a torch. www.1000petalswellness.com.

£45 . To book contact silke@1000petalswellness.com 07486 041111 Facebook Eventbrite.

Winter Solstice Labyrinth Day

with Chris Headland

Sunday 22nd December 2019

10am – 4pm

Working with the ‘Great Bear’ and the Labyrinth we’ll explore this dark time of the year and the turning point when we come out of the darkness of winter to the sun returning on her glorious path.

The bear is seen as the fierce protector and also the constellation in the sky we can easily see at this time. What better way to spend this day working with her energies, preparing us for the time of Christmas, a day away from all the material madness. www.peacepipecirclewoman.weebly.com.

Please bring a torch, coat, blankets and food for a shared vegetarian lunch. Weather dependant – ring/text on morning before 8am 01670 222735 to check if still going ahead, thank you.

£45 (£20 deposit by bacs). Contact Christine headland.christine@yahoo.co.uk.

Celebrate the Winter Solstice

with Victor Ball

Saturday 22nd December 2019

5 – 9pm

From the earliest times our ancestors have welcomed the rebirth of the sun at the darkest point of the year. In the same spirit we gather to first mourn the death of the sun and let go of that which is ending and dying. Then, through a ceremony which symbolically enacts the turning of the year from darkness to light, we celebrate the fact that life will ever spring up in a new dawn.

Share in this series of 8 events which symbolically celebrate the wheel of the year, independently facilitated by local members of druids, these seasonal gatherings are an opportunity to explore and deepen your awareness of earth-centred spiritual heritage.

Time 5-9pm (to be confirmed). Admission free – donations appreciated. For more information celticspirituality@btinternet.com 07792 606273.

Course, Workshops and Events 2020 & 2021

Seasonal Foundation in Plant Medicine 2020

with Jill Schnabel, Ross Menzies, Sarah Hughes and Nicolette Perry

Dates TBC: 01–03 May, 10–12 July, 19–20 September & 7–8 November 2020

(10-day course over 4 weekends)

Experience plant medicine through the seasons with our 4 weekend (10-day) discovery of the power of plants for health and medicine. On this practical immersive course learn how to make safe home plant medicines across the seasons in the tranquil setting of the physic garden.

With our programme of study discover how to use medicinal plants to treat the minor ailments and health issues we encounter in everyday life. Uncover some of the fascinating science, history and folklore behind the principles of plant medicine. Each course is designed to be informative, friendly and fun, allowing you to make safe home botanical remedies for you (and your family) and are complete beginner’s guides – no previous knowledge needed.

Please visit our Foundation Course page for more details.

To book or for more information email info@dilstonphysicgarden.com 07879 533875

Plant to Perfume: A Day of Botanical Perfumery*

with Tanya Moulding

Saturday 6th June 2020

10:30am – 4pm

Modern day perfumery traces its origins from humble beginnings – a simple burning of resin incense, the strewing of herbs, a splash of floral water or the scent of a pomander ball. Discover remarkable aromatic plants in this immersive workshop.

Enjoy a hands-on, interactive day embracing the creative art of botanical perfumery. Discover the origins and history of perfume from Cleopatra to Chanel. Understand perfumer’s vocabulary – the art of smelling and training the nose. Get to know perfume structure – top, middle & base notes, fragrance classifications, as well as secrets of blending and dilutions.

With lots of sampling and discussion, you’ll be guided on perfumery composition and blending to create your own alcohol-based natural perfume spray. All materials, samples, equipment, your own finished 25ml spray perfume and detailed notes included. Refreshments provided, but please bring your own lunch.

£70 (£40 deposit; FPM students pay difference from £45) 07811 177530 scent@theperfumemistress.com.

Midsummer Foundation in Plant Medicine 2021

with Jill Schnabel, Ross Menzies, Sarah Hughes and Nicolette Perry

Monday 14th – Friday 25th June 2021

(10-day course with weekend break)

Join our popular mid-summer 10-day discovery of the power of plants for health and medicine. On this practical immersive course learn how to make a range of safe plant medicines, all in the tranquil setting of the physic garden.

With our programme of study you discover how to use medicinal plants to treat the minor ailments and health issues we encounter in everyday life. Uncover some of the fascinating science, history and folklore behind the principles of plant medicine. Each course is designed to be informative, friendly and fun – allowing you to make safe home botanical medicines for you (and your family). A complete beginner’s guides – no previous knowledge needed.

Please visit our Foundation Course page for more details.

To book or for more information email info@dilstonphysicgarden.com 07879 533875