Stressed, depressed or unfit? Why not refresh your mind, body and spirit by joining Dave Thurlow at Ebbor Gorge National Nature Reserve on Wednesdays at 4pm for a Tai Chi workout in the great outdoors.
"All you require is a general level of fitness and some comfortable clothing. Everyone can keep within their own limits and abilities. Tai Chi is great for loosing joints, overcoming stress and lifting depression. Its really useful to help you recover from illness and generally improve your level of overall fitness. The added advantage of this class is that it has the spectacular backdrop of Ebbor Gorge NNR," said Dave Thurlow, Natural England’s Assistant Reserve Manager at Ebbor Gorge NNR.
Dave has been based at Ebbor Gorge for over 30 years and has over 20 years experience of Tai Chi. He also runs a class at Easton Village Hall on Mondays at 8pm.
"Exercising in the outdoors at Ebbor Gorge gives all the senses a workout", explained Dave, "we can listen to the birdsong, smell the wildflowers on the wind and watch the badgers in the early evening . I’m at the Reserve most evenings before dusk to run through the Tai Chi moves if people would like to join me on a more regular basis. We at Natural England are keen to encourage more people to reconnect with the natural environment and I can’t think of a better way of doing it."
To confirm your attendance at the class or for more information please contact Dave on 07970 285809.
Notes for Editor
1. NNRs: Every National Nature Reserve (NNR) is nationally important due to its wildlife and geological features. They are among the best examples of a particular habitat and are carefully managed on behalf of the nation by Natural England or held by approved bodies such as Wildlife Trusts.
In the South West we have 49 NNRs – all real gems for experiencing wildlife. Most reserves have their own leaflets containing information about walks and nature trails on site. Some reserves hold a programme of guided walks and events to showpiece some of their exceptional wildlife. School parties and interest/community groups are also encouraged on many reserves. Wildlife conservation and the peaceful enjoyment of nature are the priorities here so please follow the Countryside Code at all times.
2. Ebbor Gorge NNR is managed by Natural England and is leased from the National Trust, to whom it was presented on 17 May 1967 by Mrs G W Hodgkinson as a tribute to the memory of Sir Winston Churchill. Springtime is an ideal time to visit the Reserve as bluebell, wood anemone, and dog’s mercury carpet the woodland floor and the bright green of the emerging leaves on the trees start to show through.
There are three marked walks of various lengths, one with wheelchair access. The display centre at the entrance to the car park illustrates the geology and some of the wildlife to be seen on the reserve. For more information about the Reserve visit www.naturalengland.org.uk.
3. Natural England works for people, places and nature to conserve and enhance biodiversity, landscapes and wildlife in rural, urban, coastal and marine areas. We conserve and enhance the natural environment for its intrinsic value, the wellbeing and enjoyment of people, and the economic prosperity it brings. We increase opportunities to make the natural environment an enriching part of people’s everyday lives, and improve its long term security by contributing to the sustainable management of our natural resources.
4. For more information please contact Dot Isgrove on 01823 281803