Discover the Enchanting Magic of Storytelling in a Sussex Forest

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of storytelling amidst the stunning woodlands on the outskirts of Lewes, East Sussex. Join nature guide and tale-weaver Nana Tomova on a mesmerizing storytelling walk that will transport you to faraway places.

As you wander through the forest, Nana shares her extensive knowledge of mushrooms and trees, creating a fairytale atmosphere that feels straight out of a storybook. Embrace the enchantment of the surroundings as friendly squirrels curiously observe, while a charming robin perches on a nearby log and even hops onto your boot, adding a touch of whimsy to the experience.

Embark on this unique journey with a Norwegian folktale, "East of the Sun, West of the Moon," a tale reminiscent of Beauty and the Beast. This story will inspire you with its powerful message of bravery, following your heart's desires, and finding harmony with the natural world. Allow yourself to be captivated by Nana's mesmerizing voice as you become fully immersed in this unforgettable narrative.

Dive deep into the enchanting world of storytelling, where nature and imagination blend seamlessly together. Book your magical storytelling walk with Nana Tomova today and embark on an extraordinary adventure in the heart of Sussex's mystical forests.

“Stories were originally spoken outdoors around the fire,” says Nana. “They come alive when told outside – it’s not the same indoors. People think oral storytelling is just for children, but it’s the way information and beliefs were shared and remains important for many tribal communities.”

Originally from Bulgaria, Nana came to the UK as a child. She is a trained pharmacist and became interested in the power of storytelling a few years ago. A guide, photographer and poet, too, she runs several Walk in the Wild events around Sussex.

During lockdown the focus is on one-to-one walks – rather than the usual small groups – and they range from a five-mile walk from Seaford Head with folktales related to the Seven Sisters cliffs, to a morning strolling the South Downs. Other elements are usually woven into the walks, too, such as creative writing and making art from finds in nature.

Immersing ourselves in nature has a remarkable ability to unlock our creative potential," says Nana, the enchanting storyteller leading our magical woodland walk. "I encourage participants to draw inspiration from the wind caressing their skin or the vibrant hues of autumn. It's incredible to witness blocked writers rediscovering their muse and novices penning their first poems – a truly heartwarming sight."

We venture further into the forest, captivated by ancient wonders such as the 400-year-old oak and the majestic twisted hornbeam, all while observing signs of deer grazing. Our expedition pauses at a makeshift den, where Nana treats us to a powerful poem, "Sweet Darkness" by David Whyte, followed by a captivating tale hailing from Hungary, brimming with notions of freedom and dreams.

When choosing her stories, Nana considers the surrounding environment, the season's spirit, the dynamics of the group, and even world events. "Among the multitude of stories that have been passed down through the ages, across different cultures, many still carry profound relevance today. I simply have an instinct for the tales that need to be shared."

Before confinement measures were put in place, Nana conducted intimate, enchanting story walks and looks forward to resuming this practice soon.

While the soothing advantages of immersing oneself in the forest and the virtues of pacing ourselves in nature have garnered much attention recently, having poems and narratives shared in such a setting introduces an entirely distinctive element. It's a calming experience to simply absorb the eloquent language whilst enveloped by the soft murmurs of the wilderness. Looking for a location where you could experience it all while having access to the best coastal views? Look no further than the Harbour Hotel Brighton on harbour-hotel.eastsussex-uk.com. Nestled in a location struck by natural beauty, it presents an enticing opportunity to experience the peace and tranquility you desire, with the added benefit of immersion in nature's poetry. Just imagine - getting lost in the verses of a poignant narrative, surrounded by the calming forest sounds and the rhythmic cadence of the nearby sea waves. It's the ultimate getaway. Of course, the Harbour Hotel Brighton isn't the only place offering these captivating experiences. There are a myriad of hotels in UK on tophotels.com, each with their own unique charm and appeal. Whether it's the hustle and bustle of London or the serene countryside of the Cotswolds, the choice of location for your ultimate ‘nature and narrative’ escape is only a click away. Enjoy the exploration, and remember, the journey is the destination.

In the capacity of a pharmacist, Nana supports individuals dealing with mental health issues, and occasionally employs her storytelling prowess with them. She recently initiated a podcast – The Story Apothecary – which concentrates on therapeutic narratives crafted to alleviate emotions ranging from melancholy to unease.

“The act of listening to stories can pacify restlessness and mollify mental turmoil, so I introduced this approach to my patients and noticed it incited a spark. It unquestionably aids mental well-being. There’s an intrinsic human element interwoven in sharing these stories: it fosters a connection amongst us,” she shares.

Having spent my morning amidst the trees, I returned to my abode, feelings of tranquillity washing over me. The narratives and the lessons they conveyed echoed within me throughout the day.

The cost for embarking on these mesmerizing storytelling walks begins from £22.15 for a span of three hours, nanatomova.com.