Overview of the Nemetona Project as a whole
Nemeton (plural nemeta) is a Proto-Celtic word meaning a protected, sacred or ritual space. These were usually outdoor places, such as groves of trees, natural springs or wells, hidden caves, and similar, though nemeta can be intentionally created anywhere.
Nemetona is the name of the Celtic/Gaulish guardian goddess of such sacred places, and the guiding 'spirit' of the Nemetona Project (NP) as a whole. The word 'sacred' is used throughout the NP's work in its secular 'protected space' context.
The NP recognises and celebrates the importance of nemeta today, both indoors and out; and also within one's own inner being.
The concept of sacred space in a secular context is explained in more detail here if you are interested, or if you are concerned that it might be 'too religious' for you. Read this account too if you are interested in the more spiritual (but not religious) sense of a sacred place for making contact with the non-material world, or with other levels of reality than the consensus.
NP work for self-selected groups or individuals
There are three levels of working offered by the NP; and for all levels the heart of the session is that of entering a special, protected space which is different from participants’ everyday reality.
Working outdoors, the sessions take place in spaces like nature reserves or gardens protected by conservation organisations, though they can potentially be anywhere in nature: a river bank wander, a trip to nearby lanes or woodland, a seat in the local cemetery, or even time in your own garden.
Part of the NP's work is to offer Wellbeing Walks, which you can read more about here. The concepts and practices underpinning the walks also form part of the NP's longer term developmental programmes which are constructed together with the individual, or the group involved - but always bespoke for your needs. Contact Daphne to discuss your particular needs.
The NP also extends the concept and practice to the creation of indoor sacred space; and - the third level - to individuals who wish to find ways to create protected space in their own inner being.
Purpose and Benefits of Outdoor NP Programmes for work-based groups
These are always bespoke in terms of where, for how long, at what cost (if any), and what will happen, although the core principle stands. Participants experience and engage intentionally with the nature of the nemeton, before returning to their everyday reality; usually enhanced by the experience and able to sustain an improved level of well-being via improved levels of awareness. This will be ‘taught’ as part of sessions, though there are no tests to pass, or programme expectations.
There is a simple three-point purpose for participants:
to enjoy being out in nature for its own sake
to enhance well-being during the time spent in the nemeton
to provide a cognitive framework and skills for sustaining well-being once returned to everyday life.
Sessions are bespoke for every group and can be used with work-based, volunteer, community or other types of groups of up to 10 for relationship and team-building experiences, and for general enrichment and improved well-being. More in-depth longer term programmes with a therapeutic focus are also available for small groups (max 5) or individuals.
What the NP most definitely is not, is a traditional ‘outdoor programme’ in the sense of being very physically active, or having specific challenges to overcome. Nor is it competitive in any way.
What happens during a session?
All programme sessions consist of three 'activities':
- gentle walking with facilitator input relevant to the nemeton (though only at the level requested - there are no curricula)
- short periods of silence with opportunities for development of sensory acuity and meditative techniques
- facilitated discussion and reflection, along with input on awareness-raising and sensory development techniques.
Being outdoors in nature with all its proven benefits is the best choice of location for sessions, but development of skills and practices can be facilitated indoors too.
Core Structure
All sessions, whether one-offs or forming part of a longer programme utilise the same core structure of the ‘silent sandwich’. Plenary sessions at the beginning and end of entering the nemeton are the ‘bread’: participants walk, talk and notice together, focusing on the habitat, species and weather conditions as they are encountered in the moment. The facilitator gives input.
The middle substance of the sandwich is time alone, in silence, walking, resting, reflecting, and engaging
The silent sandwich process can be as short as ten or fifteen minutes for each stage; or structured, with appropriate breaks, to last several hours or a whole day. Length of stages and types of input and direction from the facilitator depend on the group’s previously identified priorities; time available; immediate issues arising; and to changing weather or other environmental conditions.
Facilitation
Daphne oversees the NP as a whole and facilitates longer therapeutic programmes. She is currently developing other facilitators for the shorter enhancing well-being sessions.
Costs
Please make contact to discuss cost as so much depends on who you are, where you are, who is your facilitator, and how long you’d like your programme to be. In certain circumstances, programmes are offered at expenses only.
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