I first started Walk and Talk therapy as an alternative in-person option during COVID lockdowns when everyone had Zoom fatigue. My clients and I both enjoyed this style of therapy and Walk and Talk stayed an option well beyond the restrictions.
Shortly after moving to Townsville I adopted a blind, elderly dog called Sasha who demonstrated knack for therapy. Sasha joined the team, however, she was much more suited to couch cuddles then walk and talks. I became office bound because all my clients opted for a cuddle with Sasha over going for a walk.
After Sasha passed away the office didn’t feel the same without her. I made the decision to move my office into nature and start Walking and Talking again. In my last blog post I wrote about dogs being the best therapy. I still agree with this but I believe nature therapy comes a close second. Here is why….
The Antidote to Stuckness
How often have you had an aha moment when you walk away from the project or problem you are working on? I have so many insights and ideas pop into my head when I’m walking my dog. This is something I have seen replicated during Walk and Talk therapy. Clients come to therapy feeling stuck. This can feel paralysing, however, an effective antidote to stuckness is movement (combined with curiosity). Just by talking about the problem while moving seems to generate new thought patterns and possibilities.
The Multitaskers Dream
Of course, movement isn’t just good for generating ideas, exercise is just plain good for us. Many of us want to exercise more but find it is another thing to fit into a busy schedule. Walk and Talk therapy is perfect for the multi-taskers out there. I’m stoked that I have found a way to incorporate exercise into a mostly sedentary job. Why not work on your mental and physical health and even a dog/baby walk, all at the same time?
Neutral Turf
When clients visit my practice, it is on my turf and they are communicating in a way that is normal for me but maybe very different for them. It seems outdoor counselling helps to even the score by providing a neutral space and natural talking style. Walk and talk therapy also reduces the level of eye contact which can make clients feel more comfortable and relaxed.
Natural Medicine
Simply being outdoors in nature also helps us relax. This is so important because when we are relaxed, we can access our memories and think rationally and creatively. When we are stressed these abilities are diminished. The natural environment also provides the perfect conditions for active mindfulness, these are activities that help us ground ourselves in the present and short circuit the stress response.
Are you curious to try therapy outdoors? Blue Wren Therapy offers Walk and Talk (and Park Bench therapy) in various locations in Townsville. If you have questions or would be interested in booking an appointment, get in touch via the Let’s Connect page.
