Ecotherapy 365/229 : Gather

If you’re in my life for more than five minutes you will know that I love picnics. That’s probably because it brings together my favourite things; friends and family, delicious uncomplicated food and the great outdoors. I believe in this so much that I have begun giving ‘picnic vouchers’ for birthday gifts — offering my loved ones quality time with me in their favourite place whenever it suits them. They have one year to redeem their voucher.

Many families and friend groups have regular meals together, whether in the home or at a restaurant or cafe. That is so important for our wellbeing. But today’s Ecotherapy tip is to 𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘀𝗲 𝗮 𝗯𝗲𝗮𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗻𝗶𝗰 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗹𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗼𝗻𝗲𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗮 𝗳𝗮𝘃𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘁𝗲 𝘀𝗽𝗼𝘁. Make it somewhere that caters for everyone’s physical needs (such as safety and accessibility, or with great trees to climb for the kids). You could possibly choose your location based on a sentimental or meaningful experience for the group. It doesn’t have to be (and probably shouldn’t be) an especially grand affair, the goal is to spend time outdoors sharing a meal and making beautiful memories. However, with a few thoughtful touches you can transform a simple occasion into a truly beautiful experience. This can become one of the ways you express your love and appreciation for the important people in your life.

Here are some ideas to create a beautiful picnic…

𝗦𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗲𝗻𝗲

Find a Scenic Spot : Choose a location with a great view, like a park, a lakeshore, or a beautiful garden, making sure it's accessible and age-appropriate. One helpful way to ensure everyone accepts your invitation is to select a location between everyone’s homes.

Timing is Everything : Consider the availability of your guests or their favourite meal of day. Sunsets are my favourite.

Comfortable Seating : Bring a large blanket or mat, scatter plush pillows for comfort. Alternatively you could ask everyone to bring their own camping tables and chairs or picnic blankets. Even a large towel will do. Another option is to use public picnic facilities such as tables and shelters, especially if it is very sunny or rain is forecast.

Decorate with Flair : Incorporate fresh flowers or greenery for a vibrant, natural feel, (or at a pinch you can use dollar store synthetic flowers and wreaths). Consider using decorative elements like an umbrella, fairy lights, lanterns and candles. You might decide on a theme linked to the occasion or the location for a more cohesive look.

𝗣𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗻𝘂

Keep it Simple : Pack foods that are easy to prepare, transport, and eat outdoors, such as sandwiches, fruits, salads, and snacks.

Showcase Seasonal Foods : Use fresh, seasonal produce to highlight the best of what's available, such as fresh fruits or a charcuterie board.

Add Refreshing Drinks : Don't forget to bring plenty of water and other cold, refreshing drinks to enjoy.

Share the Load : You could ask individual guests to contribute by bringing specific ingredients or they could provide one stage of the meal (for example dessert or drinks).

𝗚𝗮𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀

Practical Items : Pack essential items like napkins, reusable plates, cups, and cutlery. For an extra special occasion you could use household crockery and utensils.

Cooler : A cooler is essential for keeping drinks and perishable foods cold. You might bring a large container and a bag of ice to make serving food and drinks more enjoyable.

Cleanup Supplies : Be prepared to leave your picnic spot as you found it by bringing a rubbish bag and wet wipes or hand sanitiser.

𝗔𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗘𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁

Music : Create a relaxing atmosphere with a curated playlist or encourage the guests to take the opportunity for appreciating nature’s own soundtrack. Perhaps choose your location with this in mind. Gently flowing water is one of the most relaxing nature sounds.

Games & Activities : Bring along some outdoor games like a frisbee or even board games to entertain your guests. I tend to bring a hammock for my guests so they can benefit from some intentional relaxation. Kids also love swinging in hanging chairs or hammocks so bring a step stool or ottoman to make that easy for them. If you have a sturdy tree branch you could also temporarily install a regular swing. However, remember the main activity is the chance to engage in meaningful conversation.

Capture the Moment : Don't forget your camera to capture memories of your beautiful picnic.

I hope this gives you a few ideas to get started creating your own tradition of holding wonderful, memorable and well-loved picnics that will be handed down through successive generations.

Smile to yourself

#ecotherapy #friluftsliv #naturetherapy #outdoors #picnic #family #friends #food #memories #buddsbeach #goldcoast #queensland #australia #twowildfeet
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Location : Budds Beach, Gold Coast —Australia

Source information :
https://www.greenvelope.com/blog/picnic-party

Music : Picnic in the Park (Moins le Quartet), Epidemic Sound

Видео Ecotherapy 365/229 : Gather канала Two Wild Feet