This is our final episode of the season, and today, I’m asking: What really matters?As we approach the Spring Equinox, a time of balance, renewal, and reflection, I dive into the different dimensions of health - physical, mental, social, environmental, and spiritual, and ask: Are the values we live by truly our own? Do we give ourselves time to reflect, to listen, and to follow what truly matters?In this episode, Marina:Reflects personally on how the natural seasonal cycles represent our own opportunity to re-parent.Considers how Nature acts as a "third teacher," alongside parents/carers and educators.Explores the importance of reclaiming our own internal values—when we lose touch with our inner world, we struggle to set boundaries, leading to saying “yes” when we mean “no.”Recognises that true learning happens in relationships and through co-creation, not by filling children as empty vessels or leaving them entirely to their own devices.Acknowledges that quick fixes, like adding Forest School once a week, do not resolve systemic issues in education.Challenges the dominant measures of success—productivity and status—by valuing creativity, relationships, and emotional intelligence.Engages with the idea that learning is not just about acquiring knowledge but also about how we relate to the world and each other (Nora Bateson's "Warm Data").Recognises the role of creativity, play, and experimentation in helping us develop a deep sense of what feels right for us in life.Highlights the importance of slowing down, listening deeply, and creating the right conditions for people to be who they truly are.Show Notes:https://theoutdoorteacher.com/podcasts/episode-56-what-really-matters/Music by Geoff Robb: www.geoffrobb.comPlease Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple PodcastsIf you have enjoyed today's episode, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This really helps me to spread the word to more people like you, and to empower more people to take their practice outdoors!Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then let me know what you loved most about the episode!Also, if you haven’t done so already, "follow" the podcast, as if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Mentioned in this episode:Free Course in Forest School ActivitiesTry our online training for free: https://theoutdoorteacher.com/free

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