SEEDing – Nurturing the Ecological Self

We are creatures of the Earth, not separated, but ‘a part’ of the living planet. We are not only a product of the mind, but a complex system, a tapestry of heart, body, mind, soul, spirit and… relationships. This is our Ecological Self, which allows us to be deeply connected with the entire biosphere, and also know our place in the world. 

Living in modern societies, where the nature deficit disorder is a common reality among many youth and adults, we are being called to return to Nature, the one within and the one around us.

‘SEEDing – Nurturing the Ecological Self’ is an opportunity for educators and human development facilitators to immerse in a seven day experiential training in ecocentric, nature-based youth work. The training process is rooted in the vision of seeing empowered humans who are deeply connected with themselves, others and nature, and who live authentically in service of the world. By following this course, the participants will learn how to cultivate the Ecological Self of youth from their communities.

The training methodology

We are going to connect with, nurture and expand our Ecological self through a creative and experiential exploration of three fundamental concepts and nature-based educational approaches:

Ecocentric Development: We will explore and work with the Ecocentric Developmental Wheel created by the depth psychologist Bill Plotkin. Rooted in eco-psychology and indigenous wisdom, the model offers a holistic approach to human development.

Deep Ecology: We will explore and work with Joanna Macy’s creation ‘The Work that Reconnects’, Embodied exercises, deep connection processes, metaphorical work and contemplative practices will guide us in this realm.

Outdoor Education: We will create an experiential playground that will activate new layers of our ecological selves. Hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking on a mountain lake, engaging in adventurous exercises in a rope garden will offer us new educational tools.

To explore, understand and learn the three approaches we will engage in a wide variety of practices and activities, such as: wandering on the land, sharing circles, storytelling, singing, dancing and embodiment, presentations, group games, hiking, biking, canoeing/kayaking, poetry, journaling, hands-on work, community living, contemplative practices and more.

The place

The land will be the most important guide. We will spend the whole time in Chatama protected area, which is situated on the shores of Beglika Dam, nestled within the magnificent Rhodopes mountain, largest in terms of area in Bulgaria, at an altitude of 1520 meters.

The place provides excellent conditions for outdoor learning, offering specialized equipment and resources to facilitate nature-based activities. This unique setting will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the constantly evolving life within the area, harmoniously coexisting with nature. It offers conditions to be closer to nature, closer to camping style – outdoor compost toilets, shared bathroom on solar panels, and pristine water. 

Who can participate?

We are looking for people who are actively involved in the field of human development and youth work, who work especially with young people, but also with adults. The roles that describe the selected participants should be trainers, youth workers, teachers, coaches, mentors, facilitators, counselors, wilderness guides, outdoor instructors etc.

The participants must be over 18 years and have a good level of English.

Participants can apply to this training if they have legal residency in Bulgaria and Romania.

There are 16 places available, for 8 participants/country (Bulgaria and Romania).

Practical aspects

Arrival day is the 26th of July. Departure day is 3rd of August. There are 7 full training days.