New teambuilding programme inspired by gardens immortalised by John Lennon.
As the world of work opens back up, ‘Reimagine Mondays’ is the brand-new wellbeing offering for organisations from Strawberry Field, the award-winning heritage attraction in Liverpool. One of the first programmes of its kind in the UK, all activities have been inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrin Yoku, or Forest Bathing, and the calm, quiet and tranquility of the iconic Strawberry Field gardens where John Lennon found solace as a child.
With research proving that spending time immersed in nature can help reduce blood pressure, lower stress, and boost energy – each specially crafted activity is designed to help reintroduce, reconnect, and reinvigorate participants after the recent challenges we have all had to face. Our Shinrin Yoku professionals from Nature and Therapy UK will guide groups through a meaningful day out, allowing teams to shut off their screens and step outside to explore the extraordinary natural surroundings of Strawberry Field.
Home to an interactive exhibition that explores John Lennon’s childhood and the origins of one of The Beatles best loved songs, Strawberry Field is unique in that it has wellbeing, community and ‘responsible tourism’ at the heart of its story and mission. Under the care of The Salvation Army since the 1930s, the site has always been a place that supports vulnerable young people and provides a place of spirituality and sanctuary. Funds from the new Reimagine Mondays initiative will work to mutually support the local Liverpool economy via a rounded, socially responsible approach. All profits go towards keeping the gates of Strawberry Field open to the public and funding the ‘Steps at Strawberry Field’ programmes. These programmes support local adults with learning difficulties and other barriers to work, gain access to employment skills, work experience and, ultimately, paid employment.
Teambuilding with nature at its core
Centred around the Strawberry Field gardens, historic Calderstones Park, and local gems such as Woolton and Allerton, the bespoke teambuilding activities focus on key themes of nature and creativity. Led by our experts from the coaching, therapeutic and creative community, the specially crafted team days will focus on developing workplace wellbeing – all with the physical, mental and spiritual benefits of connecting with the natural environment at its heart.
From the Japanese art of Shinrin Yoku through to art sessions, putting together your own ukulele and woodturning, full day creative activities are available to create a fully bespoke team day out.
Stefan Batorijs, Shinrin Yoku practitioner and founder of Nature and Therapy UK says:
“Now more than ever people are looking for new ways to reconnect with nature. With studies showing that forest bathing can reduce stress levels, lower the heart rate and even blood pressure among participants, I look forward to guiding teams as they ‘Reimagine Monday’ to experience the extraordinary restorative health benefits of connecting with the peace and quiet of the natural environment”.
Major Kathy Versfeld, Mission Director for Strawberry Field, says:
“Ever since The Salvation Army acquired the property, Strawberry Field has remained a place of peace and tranquility beyond the famous red gates. With wellbeing and community central to everything that we do – we can’t wait to welcome colleagues through the gates to reconnect, reimagine and see the transformative power of nature first-hand.”
Julia Baird, Honorary President, Strawberry Field says:
“We are delighted to be able to continue our long legacy of providing care and support here at Strawberry Field. By launching the ‘Reimagine Mondays’ programme, we can not only continue to support our Steps to Work community but to provide a sanctuary for teams looking to reconnect, post-pandemic.”
For further information on the brand-new nature-based corporate offering at Strawberry Field please contact Ginette Goulston-Lincoln, ginette@goulston-lincoln.com +44(0)7958 448 002
Location – Strawberry Field, Beaconsfield Rd, Woolton, Liverpool L25 6EJ