James Lane: Outdoors

Bushcraft

I genuinely love the outdoors and this journey has taken me from the mental health & wellbeing benefits of shinrin-yoku (forest bathing), to bushcraft. As I developed my own skills and interests in bushcraft, I learned more about how to interact within, and rely upon nature. I am always learning more, practising and developing the craft of not just surviving, but thriving in nature.

I work with individuals, small groups and organised programmes (youth groups, Scouting and forest schools) to introduce fundamental and functional  skills that can be useful, and highly rewarding, like firelighting, making tools, campcraft and cooking.

Youth Programmes (Scouting & Duke of Edinburgh)

From being a Cub Scout, and Scout as well as a participant in the Dule of Edinburgh award - it definitely started an interest in spending time outdoors.  Facing challenges and overcoming them with only what you have with you was something that I thrived in learning and experiencing. 

I wanted to share that experience and support young people in the development of their skills, so I then went back to teach young people wanting to embark on the DofE programme, lead and assess expeditions.

I have now also returned to the Scouting movement and am the section leader for Whitley Bay Cub Scouts where I share fundamental bushcraft, camping and life skills with participants.