Let's Walk and Talk

I'm going to be offering walk and talk therapy from May so in this blog I wanted to look at the benefits of walking and talking, side by side.

When you think of therapy my guess is you imagine going along to a therapy room or having an online session. What if you could have your therapy sessions in a totally different setting – a peaceful setting, allowing you time and space to think whilst being outside in nature…what could be nicer? If you find the idea of sitting opposite your therapist in the “traditional” sense, a little daunting, then this more relaxed approach may suit you. Clients often state feeling quite nervous when attending the initial sessions – with walk and talk therapy the informality can feel less intimidating, allowing you to feel more at ease with the person walking next to you.

Let’s look at the benefits of walk and talk therapy:

Where does this take place?

This is arranged between therapist and client. A place that is easily accessible for both. It could be a nearby park or walking trail. A place that is quiet and you can feel comfortable.

This does come with considerations to be discussed by the therapist.

• Is the weather suitable today?

• Are there any physical limitations?

• Confidentiality and privacy

Positive client/therapist relationship

Clients need to feel comfortable and at ease with their therapist- the process of being outside can feel more equal than when sat opposite each other in a chair. The client and therapist build a collaborative relationship which is relaxing and enjoyable.

It may feel easier to open-up about your issues, this may come from walking side by side as opposed to sitting face to face, you feel less in the spotlight, and this helps with your flow of thoughts and feelings.

“Walking side by side with the therapist rather than sitting face to face made it feel more comfortable to share” (Anonymous cited in Greenleaf. A et Al, 2023).

Well-Being

The outdoors and the benefits of being outdoors are numerous. Being able to connect with the environment immediately allows you to feel good. There is a sense of feeling calmer, improved mood, a reduction in anxiety levels and an overall sense of wellbeing.

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks” John Muir

There have been a few studies on the benefits of walking outside, most with positive findings:

“It boosts cerebral blood flow and fosters psychological flexibility which is a critical component of effective therapy” (Brandon et Al, 2021).

Physical Benefits

It may be difficult to get out in your day, you may be stuck behind a desk at work, or maybe you are someone who struggles to go out alone. This provides two effective ways of looking after you: a mind-body connection – the release of endorphins giving you that feel good factor and naturally improving your mood; and a way to build in exercise and reap the physical as well as the mental benefits related to being outside.

A Connection to Nature

The natural world makes you feel connected, calmer and more grounded. We’re often rushing around with busy lives, not taking time to stop and breathe and this increases anxieties and clouds our vision. By connecting with nature, we have space and can connect more easily with our feelings and emotions. This may help you to express yourself more easily within the session.

Walking helps heal trauma

In trauma there is a disconnect between mind and body. A proportion of trauma therapy is helping the client to reconnect to themselves. For example, when an individual feels dissociated or numb, they will not feel safe. Allowing or helping to tune into the body before returning to the thoughts can help release any trapped trauma. To be able to process trauma effectively the process of stabilisation must first take place. Walking therapy can help with the process of stabilisation in trauma.

“It can be easier to discharge difficult emotions – particularly fear and anxiety – through movement and pace, rather than being confined to a chair” (Buckingham. L, 2021)

Walk and talk therapy can be beneficial for many issues. On days that this does not seem feasible, do not worry – with your therapist you can discuss back up plans.

When you are thinking about therapy – think about if this is a type of therapy that would suit you.

I will be offering walk and talk therapy from May 2025. Get in touch to arrange a consultation.