Nature and Experiential Learning Activities

The group goes to a location that the guide must know very well. This location is somewhere in nature and outside of the environment we are accustomed to or familiar with. It is recommended to spend at least one night at the location. A moderate to moderately difficult hike is required to reach the location. Upon arrival, it is necessary to agree on rules of behaviour in nature (noise level, waste management, use of surroundings, respect for plants and animals, etc.). Then, the leader divides the group into smaller groups, trios, pairs, and assigns the first task - building a shelter from natural materials. The shelter must withstand at least one night as it will be slept in. It is recommended to set a time limit for building the shelter (e.g., 1 hour). Participants themselves decide on the placement of the shelter, who will do what: gather materials, plan construction, construction process, size, etc. When everyone finishes, the leader assigns the second task, which is preparing material for starting a fire. Before that, the guide demonstrates fire starting with a striker, which participants later try themselves when they prepare the necessary natural material. Once the fire is lit, they prepare dinner themselves (e.g., roasted sausages), so they need longer sticks, which they shape at the end (point) with a knife themselves. After dinner, the whole group gathers for a day evaluation (what were their expectations? How were these expectations fulfilled? Where did they encounter difficulties? What surprised them about themselves? Would they do anything differently? etc.). They spend the night in the shelter, also tasked with maintaining the fire. 

* If survival in nature lasts for several days, participants can learn water filtration, orientation, identification of plant species, animals, tracking animal footprints, etc. 

"rooftop walk" is a Gestalt theatre activity aimed at exploring the multifaceted nature of conflict. Designed within the Gestalt theatre therapy framework, this activity uses the metaphor of walking between rooftops to symbolize the journey through internal conflicts and opposing desires. By engaging in this symbolic and physical exploration, participants gain insights into their perceptions of and reactions to conflict, emphasizing conflict's critical role in drama and personal development.

Emotional landscapes" is a Gestalt theatre activity that goes into the rich and complex world of internal emotions, using the metaphor of landscapes to explore and express these feelings. Participants are invited to create and inhabit physical representations of their emotional states, offering a unique opportunity for introspection, expression, and connection with others. This exercise aims to enhance emotional literacy, foster empathy, and encourage creative exploration of the self and others within a supportive group setting.

A breathing exercise to promote stress relief through controlled inhaling and exhaling.

Gentle jumping exercise to feel the rhythm and relieve stress.