We believe that life is for living

Thistle Outdoors Branching Out

Being outdoors in green space is proven to have a positive influence on our mood, outlook and general well-being.

What is Thistle Outdoors?

Free Activities Thistle Outdoors is offering a range of FREE activities from short taster sessions to longer Branching Out courses. Based in the Craigmillar area, we explore local areas such as Craigmillar Castle Park and Hawkhill woods.

We aim to offer a range of themes to suit different people:

Relaxation

Gentle exercise

Woodland activities

Health walks Our outdoor courses are free

of charge!

What does a Branching out Course involve? Branching Out is a 10 week programme of 3 hour sessions once a week for people who might be dealing with difficult life situations or living with a long term health condition.

Each week the activities are designed to gently improve mood, introduce people to local green spaces and improve health. There will be a range of activities such as fire lighting & shelter building to tai chi and environmental art.

You don’t need special equip-ment: wellies and waterproofs will be available.

Taster Sessions These sessions offer you the chance to get a ‘taste’ of many of the activities on offer during the full 10 week Branching Out course.

You can try one taster or more depending on your preference but to gain the full benefits the 10 week course is highly recommended.

Would you like to join us? If you would like to find out more about how being out-doors can help improve your fitness, while having some fun and learning more about your local environment, please join us!

“ The chance to meet people, discover local areas, relax and reflect; learn new activities and experiences” “ Made me feel relaxed and positive, made me forget about stuff... anxiety etc” “Realisation nature is that close at hand.” “ I have done more exercise this morning than in the last 6 months”

Here’s what some people have said they enjoyed most about the course:

Thistle Foundation Niddrie Mains Road Edinburgh EH16 4EA

T: 0131 661 3366 F: 0131 661 4879 info@thistle.org.uk www.thistle.org.uk

Design by Lizzie Cameron www.thecollectiveworks.co.uk

The Thistle Foundation is a company limited by guarantee and registered in Scotland, number SC24409. Our registered Scottish charity number is SC016816. Our registered address is Niddrie Mains Road, Edinburgh, EH16 4EA.

How to EnrolPlease contact Emma Hollands to note your interest and we will be in touch with more information and dates.

T: 0131 656 7343 emma.hollands@thistle.org.uk

Where to find us? Courses take place at Wighton House in Thistle Foundation on Niddrie Mains Road in Edinburgh, EH16 4EA. Secure parking is available on-site, and you can reach us from the Edinburgh bypass (Sherrifhall approach).

You can reach us by Lothian Buses 14 and 30 from the city centre, 2 from Surgeons Hall or 21 from Portobello.