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Turning off from your work and focusing on there here and now is something that those in Sweden are very good at. They call it Fika, a dedicated and compulsory shutting down of the work force twice a day (in addition to a lunch break). Mug full of coffee, topical discussions and a spread of cakes later, the mind is cleared and ready to focus on the task in hand once again.
- Hazel
- Alder
- Silver Birch
- Willow
- Oak
As I was focusing during my 15 minute connection time this week I noticed a number of things that had been passing me by; under my nose but not in my focus. Hedgerows, river banks and my own Forest School setting is covered in willow and, yes, I have been cropping, planting and sculpting (if you can call it that) to create and maintain a number of structure. 
However, it took the workshop from Helen this week (thanks to Helen and those who attended for making the day a joy to be a part of) to remember to connect with the willow.
As I slowed down and took a closer look, I noted the different shapes of catkins on the various varieties of willow. If you have it growing in your setting or garden then take a moment, you won’t regret it! This was then shared with the children – who reminded me that they were actually caterpillars – and a pot full of water and short lengths put in my window.
I now await the grand opening. And I will keep looking, reminding myself to stop and be present. Only nature to thank for that!
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