Words in the Woods: day retreat to read, write, reflect and reconnect

Therapeutic creative writing day in Ecclesall Woods (based at Hector's House) I go among trees and sit still. All my stirring becomes quiet around me like circles on water. My tasks lie in their places where I left them, asleep like cattle. From Sabbaths 1979 I by Wendell Berry Would you like to spend a day in the woods exploring the therapeutic power of poetry and prose? Join us on Saturday 26th September 2026 for a gentle, creative gathering where words, nature, and reflection come together. Through guided writing, shared readings, and quiet moments among the trees, you’ll have space to slow down, reconnect with yourself, and find inspiration in the natural world. Please note that this is a “Writing for Well-being” session, created to provide therapeutic benefit rather than improve writing craft, therefore no prior writing experience or poetry knowledge is needed. What to expect: • Guided therapeutic writing exercises • Optional sharing in a supportive group • Time for quiet reflection in nature • Gentle prompts to spark creative exploration • A relaxed, pressure-free atmosphere Facilitated by Sophie Croft and Emma Garrard. There are 2 facilitators so that there are always options for staying in Hector's House or taking part in activities outside throughout the day. If you've never been to an event like this before, have any particular requirements that you need the facilitators to be aware of, or you'd simply like to know more about the day, please book an informal 20 mins chat with Emma, by contacting her on 07974 814978 or here: Contact Me – Emma Garrard to arrange a time/date. About the facilitators: Sophie is an NCPS Accredited Psychotherapist and Therapeutic Groups Facilitator. She runs a monthly therapeutic book club in Sheffield. Emma is a BACP Senior Accredited Psychotherapist and Biblio*/Poetry Therapist who offers therapeutic creative writing and reading groups in Sheffield and online. (*”Biblio” meaning “relating to books”) What you will need: By all means bring a favourite notebook and pen but paper and pens will be provided. Light refreshments (including vegan options) will be provided throughout the day. You will either need to bring your own lunch (there will be a fridge to store it in) or you can purchase lunch from the kiosk on site, which will also be open all day serving fresh coffee, snacks, etc. More information here: 26th-September-Participant-Information.pdf Please note: these workshops are for adults aged 18 and over. Refunds are only available up to 14 days before the event.