04/08/2026
In May, we organized a week-long experiential education training program for Avans University of Applied Sciences, a Dutch social and healthcare students. We set out with the goal of letting go of control for a while, stepping into the world of adventure, being genuinely present, meeting new people with an open mind, and finding peace in nature. The adventurers who returned home were tired, but stronger in many ways.
During the week, the forest became more than just an environment; it became a companion on the journey, with much to teach those who dared to stop and listen to its messages.
The qenuine experiences in the nature at the heart of experiential education guided participants toward meaningful moments, emotions, and reflection. Through challenges and adventures, strength and resilience were discovered. The group came to realize that vulnerability does not weaken a group, it strengthens it. When you dare to show your emotions and be your authentic self, you help create a safe space within the group and set an example for others to do the same. You may come to realize that you are not alone, you actually are surrounded by caring people who support you through difficult moments.
Many participants shared that the most meaningful moments of the week were found in silence. In moments when the whole group stopped to listen the forest. During solo - alonetime in nature. While working with the clay by the water. In moments of stillness, when nature reminded, that life is not about constant achievement and performance.
Throughout the week, paticipants discovered they were in many ways far more capable of than they had believed. Some found the courage to ask for help. Another realized there was no need to prove your place in the group. A third discovered that when the phone is silent, the mind becomes quieter too. And perhaps most importantly, connection with yourself and with nature grew stronger.
During the week a group of people who were strangers to one another at first built something meaningful in just a few days, something they could bring home with them memories & inner strengths.
