The Hedge Way
Hedges are spaces between the wild and the cultivated, where both worlds can be accessed and explored. The Hedge School offers a holistic education rooted in deep nature experience, a small student to teacher ratio, and an earth honoring pedagogy supported by Rudolf Steiner’s insights. Broader narratives based on evolving science and inner knowing concerning health and wellness inform the agreements at The Hedge.
The Hedge Why
“It is my belief that if children are given the opportunity to experience and know that they are inextricably linked to the natural world, if they consider all of Nature as their family, they will become stewards of the land and protect it with all their might. When children are connected to their own indigenous roots through song, story and ancestral skills, when they are guided to revere and praise all earth honoring traditions, they will feel they are held by something much greater than themselves. This could be the antidote to the environmental trauma and cultural amnesia we currently suffer from. This could be how we move from fear and anxiety, to regeneration and true health.” ~Kelly Kietzman
The Research
“The studies “point in one direction: Nature is not only nice to have, but it’s a have-to-have for physical health and cognitive function.” (Yale University Research)
Scientific investigation (and our own intuition) shows that ample time spent in nature has dramatic cognitive impacts including increased focus, creativity, problem solving and social skills. It also lowers stress levels, improves immunity and reduces symptoms of Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD).
The gesture of honoring the earth permeates all we do at The Hedge. It is foundational to who we are and how we do things. This reverence is woven throughout our day and especially present during our morning circle, where we call to the directions: East-Air, South-Fire, West-Water, North-Earth and Center-Spirit. We celebrate the wheel of the year, honoring the solstices, equinoxes and cross quarter festivals that fall in between. All faiths are welcomed and respected at The Hedge.