What Are The Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy?

Instead of meeting a therapist in a traditional therapy room, I love to offer Walk and Talk Anxiety Therapy in and around the beautiful Essex countryside. 

Walking side by side is especially beneficial for anyone initially uncomfortable with eye contact. The conversation and pace will still be led by you, but you will be in a relaxed and natural environment with your Anxiety Therapist, which you may feel is less intimidating. 

I believe spending time together outdoors helps to combat the challenges of anxiety and stress, lowers blood pressure and improves memory.

Scientists agree with me too!

 

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What is Walk and Talk Therapy? 

As an Anxiety Therapist, I facilitate therapy sessions both online and at my private practice in Chelmsford, Essex, however there is plenty of evidence that confirms spending time outside improves both our physical and mental health.  

“All truly great thoughts are conceived while walking.”  

Friedrich Nietzsche 

Therefore, when my clients are open to the idea, I like to hold my anxiety therapy sessions outdoors.

What to expect from Walk and Talk Therapy

We would normally do a circular walk, with the distance, pace and location set to suits you. Walk and Talks can be bespoke to ensure you get what you need from them, any time for 30 minutes to 3 hours!

Shorter Walk and Talks are of course possible too, and we may spend some time together sitting at a bench (or even a coffee shop, if preferred). 

We use a heart centered approach to Anxiety Management as it is our thoughts and feelings that exacerbate anxiety, and therefore we need an alternative approach to overcoming it.

We combine our Heart Centered approach to anxiety with NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Hypnotherapy, Timeline Therapy and some CBT (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy).

This combination of varying techniques ensures you get the best results, all whilst spending time outdoors!

 

 

Many of my anxious clients have reported that they find it easier to open up, reflect and move on, when walking and talking side by side, in a beautiful natural environment. 

The great feedback and results I have seen with my anxious clients make Walk and Talk Therapy my preferred choice. 

If you want to learn more about walk and talk Therapy in Essex, then click on the button below to book a FREE Call Today to discuss.

Benefits of Walk and Talk Therapy

Exercise and nature is very beneficial for both our body and mind.

Many people spend their school or work day indoors and in front of a computer screen, some people don’t even have access to natural light from their desks. They may then return home, to relax in front of the television, or play computer games.

Research suggests however, that it is important to make time to get outdoors, since doing so is beneficial, or maybe essential, for our wellbeing.

Psychologists and health researchers are finding more and more science-backed reasons why we should go outside and enjoy the natural world. 

“Movement is a medicine for changing our physical, emotional and mental states." 
Carol Welch

 

Scientific evidence indicates that anxiety, depression and other mental health issues may all be eased while spending time in nature, and the benefits are further enhanced when therapy is combined with exercise. 

Researchers analysed 10 UK studies and found that nature walks were associated with decreased levels of anxiety and bad moods. Another study found that outdoor walks could be used as a supplement to existing treatments for major depressive disorder. The study found that the presence of water made the positive effects even stronger. 

The conversation would still be similar to a traditional therapy session, however we are walking while you are talking. I have found that bringing together nature and movement enriches the session and my clients are able to see their challenges from a different perspective.

My anxious clients are often intrigued by the idea of trying something different and are naturally drawn to being outside.

The physiology of walking helps them to get "unstuck" quicker and movement allows for more creative ways of thinking.

I use my extensive experience and training as an anxiety therapist to help my clients overcome whatever obstacles they may be facing, while teaching them skills and techniques that will help them cope with any future challenging events. 

Walk and Talk Therapy Locations 

I am happy to offer Walk and Talk Therapy at a park, wood or coastline that is convenient for you. Some of my favourite locations to visit include (but are not limited to) the following: 

Belhus Woods, South Ockendon, Essex

Central and Bell Meadow Park, Chelmsford, Essex

Danbury Country Park, Danbury, Essex

Fitch Way, Braintree, Essex

Great Notley Country Park, Braintree, Essex

Hadleigh Country Park, Hadleigh, Essex 

Heybridge Basin, Heybridge, Essex

Hylands Park, Chelmsford, Essex

Maldon Promenade, Maldon, Essex

Marsh Farm Country Park, South Woodham, Essex

Southend Pier, Southend, Essex

Thorndon Country Park, Brentwood, Essex 

Weald Country Park, Brentwood, Essex

I also offer Walk and Talk Therapy in City of London and Canary Wharf, London

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What Are the Main Benefits of Walk-and-Talk Coaching vs. Traditional Therapy Sessions

Walk-and-talk coaching has gained popularity as an alternative to traditional seated therapy, offering several unique advantages:

Reduced Anxiety and Stress

Walking in nature or a local Essex park can help ease the stress or anxiety some clients may feel in a formal office setting. Movement and fresh air have a calming effect, making it easier for some clients to open up during sessions.

Boosts Creativity and Clear Thinking

Walking has been shown to enhance cognitive function, improve focus, and stimulate creativity. This physical movement can lead to more productive discussions, problem-solving and brainstorming during the session.

Encourages Openness and Honesty

Being side-by-side with the anxiety therapist, rather than face-to-face, can remove the intensity some clients feel in traditional sessions. This informal setup often allows clients to feel more comfortable and less vulnerable, promoting more open and honest communication.

Physical and Mental Benefits Combined

Unlike sitting in a therapy room, walking promotes physical health. It can lower blood pressure, improve circulation and boost mood through the release of endorphins. Clients get the benefits of therapy while also taking care of their physical health.

Symbolic of Moving Forward

Walking is a natural metaphor for progress. As clients physically move forward during the session, it can symbolically reflect emotional or psychological progress. This dynamic shift can help to motivate clients to make positive changes in their lives.

Improves Focus and Concentration

For some, sitting still can be difficult or even distracting. Walking allows clients to engage their body, which can free up mental energy for deeper reflection and better concentration.

Flexibility and Comfort

Walk-and-talk sessions can be adapted to different environments, from city walks to serene nature trails, providing clients with a comfortable setting. This flexibility can enhance the client’s overall experience, especially if they find traditional office settings stifling or uncomfortable.

Healthier Emotional Release

Physical movement can also help release built-up tension, whether emotional or physical. This can be especially helpful for clients dealing with stress, anxiety, or frustration, as walking provides a natural outlet for these emotions.

 

If You Need Further Support

Overcoming anxiety is a journey that involves a combination of techniques and strategies.

While you can implement these tools independently, seeking the support of an anxiety therapist provides an additional level of guidance and assistance, and enables you to get to the root cause.

Taking care of your mental health is an essential part of your overall well-being. If left unresolved, anxiety can spiral out of control and have a significant impact on every area of life.

It is my belief that no one needs to struggle with anxiety, we just need the correct strategies and techniques to overcome it.

So if you want to take the next steps to have a happier life where your fears no longer hold you back, click the link below and book a free no obligation consultation call. 

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