Vildmandsforeningendk

Vildmandsforeningen i Svendborg is a local association founded in 2017 for men who have or have had a diagnosis of a serious or life-threatening illness, including conditions such as cancer, COPD, heart or lung disease, stress, burnout, and diabetes. Membership follows completion of a rehabilitation course arranged by Svendborg Municipality through the town’s Health Centre. These free courses are held three times a year and focus on the idea of nature as a source of healing.

The association offers outdoor activities and peer companionship, bringing members together around walking, observing nature, breathing and balance exercises, mindfulness, campfires, and shared experiences. Members who can attend during the day meet approximately twice a month, with weekday schedules rotated to make participation easier. The Vildmand Ranger group also arranges outings after work or on weekends, sometimes including overnight stays in shelters, tents, or bivouacs. Members may join scheduled events, suggest excursions, or help organise them. The association also maintains a camp hut and shares information about local nature and landscapes in South Funen.