From October 13th to 18th, 2025, Lorelei Youth Center had the privilege to participate in an inspiring training course on “Outdoor Therapy for Youth Mental Well-being” in the serene seaside village of Xiropigado, Greece. The event was hosted by our partner organization U.Grow, bringing together youth workers and educators from across Europe to explore how nature-based approaches can support young people’s mental health.

13/10 – Arrival Day

Participants arrived in Xiropigado and settled into the beautiful coastal environment that would serve as both classroom and inspiration for the week. The evening was spent getting acquainted and sharing expectations for the days ahead.

Day 1 (14/10) – Building Connections and Foundations

The first day focused on getting to know each other through creative icebreakers and group-building activities. Sessions explored “What is Youth Work?” and “What is Youthhood?”, sparking meaningful discussions about the challenges and opportunities faced by young people today. The atmosphere quickly filled with openness, curiosity, and collaboration.

Day 2 (15/10) – Mental Health and Wilderness Therapy

This day introduced the core themes: understanding mental health and the concept of wilderness therapy. Participants learned how nature can be a therapeutic partner in youth work. The group also experienced a practical Outdoor Tool – Reflective Hike, using the natural landscape as a mirror for self-awareness and emotional grounding.


Day 3 (16/10) – Anxiety, Depression, and Outdoor Practice

Focusing on youth mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, participants shared experiences and explored early intervention strategies. Later, the group engaged in a calming outdoor activity: olive picking and meditation, discovering how simple, mindful interactions with nature can foster relaxation and presence.

Day 4 (17/10) – Learning Through Play and Exploration

The morning session featured a “Tough Board Game” – an educational game with a quiz designed to deepen understanding of mental health in a fun, interactive way. In the afternoon, participants enjoyed a day trip to Nafplion, one of Greece’s most picturesque towns, combining cultural discovery with group bonding and reflection.

Day 5 (18/10) – Self-Care and Creating Tools

The final full day centered on self-care an essential aspect of sustainable youth work. Participants collaborated to create practical tools and methods that can be used to integrate outdoor therapy approaches into their own projects and communities.

Reflections

Participating in this training was a transformative experience for Lorelei Youth Center. It reminded us that nature is a powerful ally in nurturing resilience, emotional balance, and community connection among young people. We are grateful to U.Grow for organizing this enriching program and look forward to applying what we learned in our future youth initiatives.