Why choose walking talking or outdoor therapy?
This isn’t alternative therapy, its essential therapy.
Unlike traditional talking therapy, where two people sit facing each other in a room, walking talking and nature based therapy combine evidenced based psychodynamic practice and experience with all the health benefits of light exercise and natural surroundings, without the need for direct eye contact or stillness.
Green Social Prescribing and wanting to reconnect with nature is part of a growing trend to take our lives outdoors since the Covid pandemic.
Why not join me to do the most natural thing in the world and take a walk and talk outside?
Things to consider
Benefits
- Can be less intimidating than traditional therapy
- Can rekindle or foster a love of being outdoors
- Deeper connection
- Sustained personal growth
- Able to recreate the benefits of being outside between sessions
- Lowered Cortisol stress levels
- Serotonin and endorphin levels increased
- Connection to nature
- Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system so you can relax
- Improve mood - alleviates feelings of depression and anxiety
- Improve attention span and cognitive function
- Encourages mindfulness, reducing stress
Considerations
- Not for everyone - you might prefer a more seated or online approach
- Some people find being outdoors overwhelming
- Health conditions
- Fitness levels
- Possibility of meeting other people as walk
- Being outside in all weathers
Find out more
We will always aim to walk or take the session outside. High winds, torrential rain or heavy snow are the only exception, in which case we can meet at the hut or make our session online. Or worst case scenario abandon a walk and finish the session in one of our cars.
All you need
- A change of footwear (sturdy walking boots or wellies preferably)
- A water proof/warm coat
- Potentially a pair of waterproof trousers
- Covered legs to avoid the possible brambles or nettles we may encounter
- To be honest about your fitness and health, including any medication so I can support you to the best of my knowledge and ability
- Provide me with an ICE (emergency contact)
I'll bring
- A warm welcome, patience and kindness by the bucket load
- A drink, a snack, spare warm clothing and a poncho if needed.
