BE AUTHENTIC:
NO LIES, NO FLUFF, NO PRETENCE
ABOUT
Who We Are
We are reviving a community which brings together unique ideas and talents to provide an authentic, nurturing space for healing
Renewal and deep transformation are key elements of Back on Track, whilst restoring alignment and communion with nature are it's cornerstone.
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The men come because they feel disconnected or apart from their communities, their families and from themselves.
They come to get a felt experience which can act as a template for all other relationships; to be a part of rather than of apart from.
All of you
is welcome
The good boy, the tantrums, the hurt terrified child,
yer murderous thoughts and bitter dark resentful envy, anger, rage…but we must plaster this accross the page; we have one rule:
NO HARM TO SELF NO HARM TO OTHERS
Nature's Call to Action: People Nurturing Spaces
By Jim Vafidis, Senior Lecturer of Environmental Sciences, UWE
Local nature reserves, like Old Sneed Park, are not just scenic spots – they're sanctuaries. In the hustle and bustle of modern life, they offer an oasis of tranquility. These places support life, biodiversity and open air. They resonate deeply within the human spirit in ways we don't even consciously realise
However, in spite of their immense value to us, these reserves frequently suffer due to underfunding and a lack of necessary guided support. They are often small and isolated, making them vulnerable to external disturbances. Fragile habitats can easily decline, while aggressive species may monopolise resources. This gradually causes ecological strain, habitat loss, diminishing biodiversity, and even issues like soil erosion – all of which reduce the essence that draws people to these spaces
With collective effort, we can reverse these problems by identifying the disruptions, reversing the damage, and restoring the balance. When volunteers give their attention and energy, they can breathe life back into these spaces. This isn't about micromanaging nature; it's about facilitating an environment where ecosystems can regain their inherent balance by eliminating the threats that destabilise them
There are straightforward yet impactful measures we can adopt to bolster the health and vitality of these sites, for instance within woodland habitats: Combatting Invasive Species - Plants like Cherry Laurel, Rhododendron, Cotoneaster, and Bamboo hinder the growth of native flora by blocking sunlight. Eliminating these problem species can bring life back to the woodland floor, encouraging a richer diversity of plants to flourish Shaping Pathways and Safeguarding the Soil -Excessive footfall can wear down woodland terrains, causing soil erosion and inhibiting plant growth. By maintaining clear designated pathways and using natural barriers, we can channel foot traffic appropriately, allowing affected areas to heal In undertaking these endeavors, the rewards are clear. We don't just observe – we participate in the revival. With this care, these habitats will rebound and flourish. So, answer nature's call to action. Your time, passion, and effort can ensure our cherished local space remain special
OUR VISION
Enrealment Not Enlightenment
We awaken and regenerate the energy of the human spirit to take individual and collective responsibility for living consciously with empowerment through embodiment to create lasting change in the world
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We manifest that vision through incorporating venues and locations into our timetable that compliment our (w)holistic approach; allowing us to come together outdoors by default, but with options to convene indoors if necessary
Venues & Locations include*:
* List not exhaustive
Allotment
A valuable asset for building positive social networks, maintaining abstinence from drugs & alcohol and reconnecting hands-on with nature We view it as essential to get outside and be physically active in a social environment; listening, learning, sharing skills, building friendships and feeling good about it Whether people have an abundance of experience or none, all of you is welcome at the BoT allotment
'Not So Youthful' Communing Space
A deliciously alcohol and drug free space where your presence alone with nothing to prove will be wanted and welcomed
Provisionally Open: 8.30 AM - 8.30 PM | End Goal: Staffed by volunteers 24/7
Welcome to our humble indoor sanctuary and fortress of safety; the house of the father for the fatherless sons Being able to feel safe with other people is probably the single most important aspect of mental health; safe connections are fundamental to meaningful and satisfying lives. The therapeutic value of the support and identification of a fellow sufferer’s story and company is unparalleled When the weather is inclement (as in too wet and/or cold) we will move all activities, groups to the NSY Communing Space at TBC @Bristol - just off Gloucester & Ashley down Road. When we aren’t running our anti-depressant experiences, our Communing Space will be the indoor gathering space where... All of You is Welcome! We will have beanbags, tea & coffee making facilities, a pool table, table tennis, table football, a darts board, board games, books, music & musical  instruments, paper, pens and creative arts stuff and eventually there will be some good old fashioned home-made cooking and recipe sharing once the kitchen installation is completed As previously stated, this is not instead of the fellowships /mutual aid, supported housing groups and other community based and residential recovery services but also and... There will be no on call/out of hrs services, but we will be creating an en masse WhatsApp group where participants can reach out for help when struggling We have one rule: NO HARM TO SELF NO HARM TO OTHERS - Meaning you must be clean/sober on the day of attending any BoT interventions, activities or events That said, I can’t wait to hang out and just be with you ALL again; I’ve missed you! - JD xx
Following the UBUNTU way In certain regions of South Africa, when someone does something wrong he is taken to the centre of the village and surrounded by his tribe for two days while they speak of all the good he has done They believe each person is good, yet sometimes we make mistakes, which is really a cry for help They unite in this ritual to encourage the person to reconnect with his true nature. The belief is that unity and affirmation have more power to change behaviour than shame and punishment This is known as Ubuntu - humanity towards others
External Solutions for Internal Problems Do Not Work
Alongside growing populations we are becoming more and more disassociated, marginalised and disenfranchised; experiencing perpetual dissatisfaction resulting in stress, depression and lifestyle dis-ease. Seeking reward and gratification from outside ourselves and often paying limited attention to the way we live, the conversations we have
The global unconscious, becoming conscious is awakening the urgent need to return home to our bodies and then take up our roles in the natural world. The quest for a greater meaning in our lives - more connection and kindness in community. We are choosing to move away from empty patriarchal, avaricious consumerism; finding joy in simple experiences such as walking barefoot in the ground and discovering a deeper contentment from sensing the intricate detail of being a part of, not apart from the globe
St. Andrews Park, Bristol
with James & Bert Dickinson
Part 1
Part 2
This beautifully maintained park opened in 1895 is considered by many to be a sacred space for the memories it holds, it's significance today and hopefully it's availability to everyone for many years to come It has an abundance of applications, including wildlife habitats and the ecosystems it contains to name but a few Please click on the videos to find out more about how Back on Track uses it
AT THE CORE
Our Founding Principles
AUTHENTICITY
Have the courage to bring your true self. Be open to healing from your past, embrace your present and consciously choose your future. When you're in a place of wholeness it is easier to forge deeper connections, support others and make for a more loving world
RESPECT
Become part of an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives, cultures and value are welcomed and celebrated through regenerative living and work in dynamic harmony with nature.
CURIOSITY
