Could the secret to healing and resilience be as simple as reconnecting with nature and play?
In this episode of HCA Talks Health, we sit down with Elly Dolan — a counsellor who integrates early years development, outdoor education, and somatic practices into her unique approach to therapy. From the profound mental health benefits of time in nature to the transformative role of play, Elly offers insights that will shift how you think about learning, healing, and community.
🎧 Tune in to discover:
How nature supports mental health and resilience
Why play is essential at every stage of life
The impact of forest schools and outdoor education
Clay field therapy and its role in emotional healing
Practical ways to reconnect with yourself and the world around you
🌐 Learn more about Elly’s work: https://www.ellydolan.com
💌 Share ideas for the ReWild Project: [email protected]
Whether you’re a Health Coach, therapist, parent, or simply curious about holistic wellbeing, this conversation will inspire you to rediscover joy and nurture balance through nature and play.
🔗 Explore more HCA Talks Health episodes: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com/health-wellness-podcast
⏱️ Timestamps
0:00 – Introduction & Elly’s background
1:00 – From early years education to working with at-risk teens
2:00 – The role of play and freedom in nature for development
3:00 – Training teachers in forest school and their unexpected transformations
5:00 – Emotional responses and restorative benefits for teachers
6:00 – Addressing gaps for carers and the start of the ReWild Project
8:00 – Playfulness, community, and confidence through new experiences
10:00 – Why being in nature benefits our mental health
12:00 – Discomfort, resilience, and building community outdoors
14:00 – The importance of play in education systems
15:00 – Early childhood development and emotional intelligence
17:00 – Why adults need play too
18:00 – Early experiences shaping adulthood: a case study
20:00 – Feeling valued through play and community
21:00 – Therapeutic approaches in Elly’s practice
23:00 – Nature as a co-counsellor in therapy
25:00 – The power of pausing and reflective practice
26:00 – Clay Field Therapy explained
28:00 – Trauma-informed, body-based healing with clay
30:00 – Why working with the body is essential in trauma recovery
32:00 – Nature and movement as therapeutic tools
34:00 – Accessibility of nature for wellbeing
35:00 – Future of the ReWild Project and funding
36:00 – How to get involved or support ReWild
37:00 – Key takeaways: caring for the carers & importance of support
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If you have a passion for health and wellbeing and would like to discover a new, rewarding career in Health & Wellness Coaching, we invite you to visit our website: https://www.healthcoachesacademy.com
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