Getting ready for Nature for Life
Starting something new can bring lots of feelings—excited, nervous, curious or unsure.
We have created a simple guide to help participants, families, carers and support workers understand what to expect before joining Nature for Life. It includes information about the group routine, what to bring, ways we support comfort, understanding anxiety, and where to find extra support.
Preparing for New Experiences
This page is here to help you know what to expect before joining Nature for Life, so trying something new can feel a little easier.
Nature for Life is an eight-week outdoor program where you spend time in nature with a small group of people. Each week, we explore local parks and gardens, try gentle activities, learn about wellbeing and spend time connecting with others.
The program is led by an occupational therapist, with support from a student occupational therapist or therapy assistant where appropriate.
You do not need special knowledge or outdoor experience. Just come as you are.
It’s okay to feel nervous
Trying something new can sometimes feel scary. You might wonder:
What if I do not know anyone?
What if I say the wrong thing?
What if I need a break?
What if I do not enjoy it?
These thoughts are common. Our aim is to make the group welcoming, predictable and supportive, so you can take part in the way that feels right for you.
What to expect
Each session follows a familiar routine:
Welcome: We say hello, check in and look at the visual schedule together.
Nature walk: We explore the outdoor space together at your own pace.
Learning time: We talk about a topic connected to nature.
Group activity: We try a flexible activity related to the week’s theme. There are no right or wrong answers.
Wrap-up: We reflect on the session.
Activities may include gentle walks, noticing nature through sight, sound, touch and smell, relaxation, creative projects, conversations, games, picnics or quiet reflection. You do not have to do everything.
Ways we support you
Everyone participates differently. Some people enjoy talking; others prefer listening or walking quietly. All of these ways of participating are okay.
Nature for Life offers:
A small group
A familiar routine each week
Visual schedules and clear instructions
Flexible activities
Opportunities to take a break
Support from an occupational therapist
Encouragement without pressure.
What to bring
Please bring:
Comfortable walking shoes
A hat and weather-appropriate clothing
A water bottle and sunscreen
Any medications you usually carry
Headphones, a fidget or a comfort item if these help you
A support worker or family member, if this has been arranged
Before your first session
Before the program begins, we will send you information to help you arrive with confidence. This may include the meeting location, photos of the meeting point and nearby landmarks, parking and public-transport information, and details about paths, toilets, sheltered areas and other facilities.
We will always confirm your group’s meeting place before your first session.
Understanding anxiety
New experiences can sometimes make the body feel worried or overwhelmed. Anxiety is a natural protective response; it can happen when your brain is trying to keep you safe in an unfamiliar, uncertain or stressful situation.
You can learn more about anxiety, common body responses and small ways to find calm in the guides.
Need support now?
These materials provide general education and are not a diagnosis or individual treatment plan.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 000.
For 24/7 crisis support in Australia, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or text 0477 13 11 14.
