Walking Therapy

Walking therapy, also known as walk-and-talk therapy, is a form of psychotherapy that takes place outdoors while the therapist and client walk together. This approach is gaining popularity since lockdown, as a way to blend physical movement with traditional mental health treatment, offering an alternative to conventional in-office therapy.

Origins of Walking Therapy

Walking therapy has roots in various therapeutic traditions, but it became more widely recognized in the 20th century. It draws from ideas in:

Ecotherapy: This is a broader practice that emphasizes the therapeutic benefits of connecting with nature, reflecting the understanding that spending time in green spaces can have positive effects on mental health.

Historical Perspectives: The practice of walking to aid thinking or problem-solving is ancient, going back to philosophers like Aristotle, who is known for conducting his teaching while walking.

Cognitive Benefits of Walking: Modern psychology recognizes the link between movement and cognitive processes, where physical activity like walking can stimulate thought processes, making it easier for clients to express themselves.

How Walking Therapy Works

Setting: Walking therapy sessions often occur in parks, countryside settings, or urban green spaces, providing a calming and natural environment for clients. Some therapists in the UK might also use coastal paths or woodlands, depending on their location.

Process: During the session, the therapist and client walk side by side, maintaining the same therapeutic conversation that would take place in a more traditional indoor setting. The focus is on creating a relaxed, less formal environment while addressing emotional or psychological issues.

Structure: Sessions are typically scheduled as they would be for indoor therapy, with the same confidentiality and boundaries, but adapted to outdoor settings. The client leads the pace, both metaphorically and literally, with the option to pause, sit, or slow down if needed. Therapists may use some creative intervention whilst in nature asking the client to notice what they are drawn too and how their body feels during the session.

Benefits of Walking Therapy

Physical and Mental Health Synergy: Walking improves physical health (heart rate, blood circulation, fitness) while also alleviating symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. This combination of movement and talk therapy may enhance mental well-being.

Relaxed and Open Environment: Being outside in nature can create a sense of openness and reduce the intensity of a face-to-face therapy session. The side-by-side walking format might also reduce the discomfort some people feel when speaking about sensitive topics in more formal settings.

Increased Mindfulness: Walking in natural surroundings can help foster mindfulness, grounding the client in the present moment and promoting a sense of calm.

Creativity and Problem-Solving: Studies suggest that walking can enhance creativity and clarity of thought, which may benefit clients in processing emotions, problem-solving, or generating new perspectives on personal issues.

Reduced Stigma: For some people, attending therapy in a traditional setting can feel intimidating or stigmatizing. Walking therapy offers a more informal approach, which can help those who are uncomfortable with conventional therapy.

Who is it for?

Individuals Seeking a Less Intense Environment: Clients who find the idea of sitting across from a therapist too intense or confrontational might feel more comfortable in a less structured, outdoor environment.

People who are Neurodivergent: Those with neurodivergence may feel the traditional form of therapy difficult to tolerate with little movement and direct eye contact. They may struggle with focus and lose train of thought easily in traditional counselling.  Being outdoors in nature will offer them stimulation to help them make connections and process their thoughts and feelings easier and quicker.

People Needing Stress Relief: The natural environment can be particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing high levels of stress or burnout, as being in nature can promote relaxation.

Clients Who Enjoy Nature: Those who already feel a connection to the outdoors or have an active lifestyle might find this approach particularly appealing.