The
benefits of walk & talk nature therapy
- Reduced Stress, Anxiety & Depression Symptoms-Being in green spaces has been shown to lower cortisol levels (your main stress hormone) and ease symptoms of anxiety and depression. The natural environment along with exercise acts as a calming agent, helping clients feel more relaxed and open. Some studies showing that 71% of people who engage in a country walk feel a decrease in depression symptoms.
- Reduced Intrusive Thoughts-Nature walks can ground a person's mind, helping to reduce intrusive thoughts that cause significant distress and anxiety.
- Enhanced Creativity-Walking outdoors can stimulate creativity and cognitive functioning, allowing clients to find solutions to their problems more easily by boosting alpha & gamma waves, whilst reducing the over stressful Beta waves.
- Improved Focus and Attention-The soothing environment of nature can improve concentration and attention span, making it easier to stay present during therapy sessions.
- Enhanced
Emotional Expression-Walking
side-by-side rather than sitting face-to-face can make sharing
thoughts and feelings feel less intimidating. It fosters a sense of
mutuality and comfort.
- Boosted Creativity and Insight-Movement stimulates both hemispheres of the brain, which can lead to fresh perspectives, emotional breakthroughs, and improved problem-solving.
- Mindfulness and Sensory Engagement-Nature invites clients to engage their senses—touching tree bark, listening to birdsong, smelling nature scents—which can ground them in the present moment and deepen emotional awareness.
- Improved Physical Health-Walking is a low-impact exercise that supports cardiovascular health, boosts energy, and enhances overall fitness.
- Empowerment and Autonomy-Clients can set the pace and choose the route/distance, you are always in control.
- Accessible and Inclusive-Outdoor therapy can be adapted for various mobility levels and sensory needs, making it a flexible option for many individuals.
Boost Vitamin D levels -Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D production in the body, and even 10 to 30 minutes of exposure can significantly boost vitamin D levels, improving mood whilst helping to regulate sleep patterns/sleep quality. This is of course of more importance during the winter months with less daylight.
FAQ’s
What will happen during the walk?
Depending on your circumstances, the walk may entail some brief
mindfulness & meditation in the healing power of the forest, I
may also blend different holistic modalities such as CBT, NLP, EFT, Inner child healing & more. We may even be lucky to catch a glimpse of the wild deer I see from
time to time :-)
Do I need to be an experienced walker?
No, we can plan and implement
a route/pace tailored to your requirements. Just bring comfortable
shoes for walking and appropriate clothing (waterproof/thermal layers if the
weather requires it).
Where will the walk be?
Depending on your
requirements, the walk will be local to me; Howley forest situated on the
Morley/Batley boundary, Batley Park or Oakwell Hall country park
(Birstall). Alternatives can be discussed also if required.
How will you prepare/tailor the walk to me?
I will complete a risk
assessment prior to the walk to tailor the walk to your specific
needs & requirements.
How long will the walk last?
I offer 60 & 90 minute walks and I can also tailor if you require it.
Is parking free?
Yes, absolutely!