On 4 May, at the picturesque Laghetti Curiel in Campogalliano, a wonderful morning of workshops dedicated to elderly people and family caregivers was held. Immersed in nature, participants were able to dedicate time to their personal well-being, exploring practices that fostered connection with themselves and their surroundings.
The participants, arranged in a circle with mats on the grass by the lake, began the day with a Mindfulness session led by psychologist Rebecca Vellani. The ‘Meditation of Light’ allowed them to focus on the present and dissolve difficult emotions, reaching a state of deep awareness and relaxation.
Next, music therapist and phototherapist Alessandra Foppoli introduced the participants to phototherapy, a creative practice that uses photography as a means to express and explore their emotions. This experience stimulated personal reflection through visual art, offering new perspectives on one’s inner world.
Educator and ANS president Licia Boccaletti then involved the participants in ‘Blackout Poetry’. This activity encouraged creativity and personal expression, allowing hidden feelings to be revealed through poetic writing.
The morning ended with a moment of discussion and sharing, during which participants expressed their willingness to repeat activities of this type, recognising the benefits obtained. Many reported feeling deeply in touch with nature and with each other, and achieving greater awareness of their emotions through mindfulness.
Building on the success of this first meeting, a second event was held on 18 May in Novi. On this occasion too, participants were able to practice mindfulness, this time with a special focus on increasing self-compassion. Guided by psychologist Rebecca Vellani, they explored techniques for cultivating kindness towards oneself, facing one’s difficulties with greater gentleness and understanding.
Afterwards, the day included a reminiscence therapy session based on flowers, fruits and vegetables. Starting with two baskets full of nature’s produce, participants were asked to choose an item that aroused emotions and memories of the past in them. These memories were then shared with the group, bringing to light deep emotions linked to childhood and youth, such as joy, love, affection and nostalgia for times spent with family.
Through the evocative power of the scents, colours and textures of natural products, participants were able to relive significant moments from their past, strengthening their sense of identity and continuity. Sharing these personal experiences created an atmosphere of intimacy and connection, fostering mutual support among participants. This second morning also ended with a Blackout Poetry session led by educator and ANS president Licia Boccaletti.
These encounters demonstrated how activities based on contact with nature can have a positive impact on emotional and psychological well-being. Enthusiastic participation and positive feedback suggest that similar events could become permanent fixtures, offering continuous opportunities for care and attention for oneself and others.
