Anxiety and Burnout Counselling

Walking and getting outside in nature is proven to be beneficial. Being alive and human means having a natural connection with all living things. Studies have shown that the sight of natural bodies of water or large green spaces provides an instant calming affect on the nervous system. Also, being in nature means you are exposed to sunlight which triggers the body to produce vitamin D. This is an essential hormone for us; having a lack of vitamin D shows symptoms of low energy, not sleeping well, frequent illness, anxiety and muscle pains. If you struggle with seasonal affective disorder, you know that going outside for just 15 minutes per day, even when the day is short in Winter and sunlight is weak, can give you a real boost. Imagine what this can do for those who are struggling with depression. Walk and talk therapy blends physical activity with counselling, and can offer a dynamic alternative to the conventional therapy setting.  

The Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy:

 

• Walking stimulates endorphin release and can alleviate the symptoms of anxiety and depression; this is evident in the holistic nature of walk and talk therapy where mind and body work together to foster healing. 

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• It helps to break down barriers: the informal setting of walking side by side rather than sitting face to face can reduce the pressure that a client feels in traditional therapy sessions. This environment often leads to more open, relaxed and spontaneous talking, helping the clients to articulate their thoughts that they may struggle to express in a more formal setting.

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• Nature acts as a co-therapist. The calming effects of nature and being outdoors can further enhance the therapeutic process. Being outdoors in nature reduces stress levels and has been known to improve mood. Walk and talk therapy can happen in a variety of settings: from beaches to parks.

 

• Walk and talk therapy can also support a client to feel more in control of their therapeutic journey. It empowers clients through movement. The act of walking forwards can be a physical but also a metaphorical mirror of the emotional and psychological progress clients can make.

Who Would Benefit from Walk and Talk Therapy?   

There are many clients who would benefit from walk and talk therapy. For example, those with anxiety, depression, or those who find traditional therapy settings restrictive, stifling and suffocating. Clients who are autistic or who have been diagnosed with ADHD often find walk and talk therapy less formal and more comfortable, especially if they don’t like sitting still for long periods of time and don’t like eye contact. Finally anyone who loves being outdoors and in nature.

Overall then, the benefits of walk and talk therapy are unique and it offers a refreshing holistic approach to mental health care.  I would encourage any client to seriously consider this innovative method especially if they are looking for an experience that nurtures both the mind and body, thus moving you on your journey in more ways than one.