Weeping Willow Programme

Grief is often minimised, rushed, or treated as a private burden — despite being one of the most universal human experiences. 

In our culture, we are encouraged to “move on” quickly after bereavement, to stay productive in the face of eco-anxiety or existential uncertainty, and to avoid dwelling on the sorrow for the parts of ourselves that have been lost, neglected, or never fully realised. When grief is suppressed or carried alone, it can deepen feelings of loneliness and isolation. 

Without communal ritual or structured support, grief can become complicated or prolonged, increasing the risk of emotional and mental health struggles. 

Yet grief is not a weakness — it is a deeply human, adaptive response to loss. Research shows that while grief is biologically universal, it is shaped and supported by culture. Across religious traditions, indigenous communities, and Celtic lineages, shared ritual and connection to nature provide emotional regulation, social cohesion and spiritual meaning. These practices help individuals, and communities, to heal.

The Weeping Willow Programme

The Weeping Willow Programme is a free, 8-week therapeutic journey for adults experiencing different forms of grief. Rooted in the work of Francis Weller, this programme honours grief as a gateway to connection, meaning and renewal.

In a small, supportive group setting, we will work with nature-based practices, ritual, creativity, and transpersonal therapy to gently explore and tend the many faces of grief, including:

• Bereavement of a loved one
• The neglected or unloved parts of ourselves
• Sorrow for the state of the world — eco-crisis, war, and division
• The loss of dreams that did not come to fruition
• Ancestral grief carried across generations

Together, we will create a compassionate space where grief is welcomed, witnessed, and honoured — not hurried or silenced.

Through the programme you will:

• Acknowledge and give voice to your grief
• Participate in meaningful rituals and fire ceremonies that support healing and transformation
• Receive therapeutic guidance alongside peer support
• Deepen your connection to nature and the cycles of life
• Experience the power of shared mourning within community

Grief needs tending. When held in community, it can become a source of strength, belonging, and renewed vitality.

If you feel called to explore your grief in a supported, nature-based therapeutic setting, we welcome you to join us on this eight-week journey.

Programme Details & Location

The programme takes place every Tuesday for 8 weeks from 13:00 – 16:00 from 6^th Oct – 24^th Nov

The sessions take place on a smallholding outside in nature at The Willow Tree Foundation SN14 7NZ.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. How many people will attend the programme?
We believe that a maximum of 10 adults creates an intimate space that enables everyone to share and ask questions.

2. Is the programme free?
Yes we fundraise throughout the year to fund it, and we welcome donations via our GoFundMe Page Here: https://gofund.me/f71e99a5

3. What are the location details and facilities?
The Willow Tree Foundation (Lower Leaze, Nettleton SN14 7NZ) is accessible by car and parking is available on site. The site has portable toilets and the land is flat and accessible. Camping chairs will be available & a marquee is available during bad weather.

4. Are refreshments provided?
Yes we provide a range of teas, coffee and snacks. We also advise that you bring a water bottle with you.

5. How do I know if this is right for me?
Grief is grief, no matter how large or small it may feel. If left untended, it becomes a heavy load to bear. We welcome everyone no matter what stage of grieving you are at or what you are grieving from, come and let the trees embrace you.

6. I’m worried that my grief could overwhelm me if I make space for it?
This is totally understandable and why many people turn away from their grief as opposed to towards it. You will be well held by me and the others in the group. Grief was never meant to be a solo pursuit – it is to be shared and witnessed by others.

Our Programmes