Sam Lee

Sam Lee is a deep Nature lover and communicator of stories about Nature, through folklore, song and myth. He is also a writer, activist and creator of profound experiences in Nature. Through his ‘Singing With Nightingales sessions’, Sam invites us to “step into the springtime woods…” and witness musicians duetting with the enigmatic nightingale. We selected Sam as a Champion because of his magical ability to, “lead people to places of glorious confrontation with beauty…a more profound awareness…and a greater sense of understanding and soulful allegiance with the natural world.”

Watch our conversation with Sam, ahead of the release of his new album, “songdreaming”, out in March 15th, 2024.

How does time in Nature, and feeling connected to Nature, help you personally?

“I make a concerted effort to make sure I spend a regular amount of time in healthy natural environments. It’s like spending time with your friends that are in a good place in life and so can look after you – strong and wise. It’s like being with the elders. Being in Nature has felt more like home than anywhere else. I have found great sanctuary, great healing there, and I am devoted to passing on the gifts I was shown as a child.”

What advice do you have for people looking for a better connection with Nature?

“I think the first thing is to recognise that everybody has a unique way of relating. So finding what landscapes resonate with you personally is important and exploring why that is. I always say, when you can, spend time walking alone. And when you’re walking, walk slower, and where possible, do some silent observations. Also, if it’s warm or comfortable enough, take your shoes and socks off. It’s a really simple gesture, which will give you an utterly profound form of stimulation and connection, which is denied by wearing shoes.”

What changes would you like to see to help more people access Nature and build positive, nurturing relationships with it?

“Well the big thing for me would be to extend the Right to Roam that exists in Scotland to the rest of the UK, so we have a permissive attitude towards people walking in Nature, not confined to footpaths, particularly with access to forests and rivers. All within a criteria of respect and adherence, protecting farmer’s crops, people’s privacy etc. But then also a Wild Service, a kind of natural health service, with proper funding to support an industry of reconnection, employing a national workforce.”

Find out more about Sam Lee and his work:

Sam’s links
Website
Instagram

Singing With Nightingales
Website
Instagram