Enjoy the Benefits of Nature in Walk and Talk Therapy
Spending time in nature has many benefits. Being outside in nature reduces stress and promotes healing. Research shows us that people who spent 120 minutes/2 hours a week in nature reported better health. Contact with plants, trees, and flowers is therapeutic for our bodies. Being in nature calms our nervous system-blood pressure, breathing, digestion, and more. Some call it “Forest-Bathing.” Being in nature feels soothing and peaceful. Additionally, there many studies highlight benefits of nature on our mental health. Nature can improve our mood and emotional regulation. In return, this has a positive impact depression and reduces stress hormone. Further, spending time outside can lower high blood pressure, improve concentration and memory. Altogether, it's clear that exposure to nature is beneficial for us. Connecting with our natural environment and absorbing vitamin D is beneficial to our mental health.
Why Try Walk and Talk Therapy?
Walking has many of the same benefits as nature. Walking improves sleep, and it reduces anxiety and physical tension held in the body. As it is a side-by-side activity, we are engaged in sense of togetherness. This can increase the comfort level and capacity to be vulnerable. Overall, it can increase level of bonding and attunement. Additionally, walking often feels good to our bodies as our bodies have a natural desire to move.
Benefits of Walking for Walk and Talk Therapy
Further, walking is experienced as a mindfulness-based activity. Being present has many benefits. Imagine being in the outdoor environment completely absorbing your surroundings. Feeling and noticing your movement in each step. Sensing how 'together' you feel with the person with you. All of this is vital to our goal: cultivating motion toward empowerment and growth. The counseling experience is enriched and enhanced. It is as if psychological movement parallels physical movement.
The sigh of feeling stuck isn’t in the mix. You access deeper parts of your self, emotionally and somatically, during mindful movement. This is often reached in a deeper capacity compared to being stationary.
How Will Walk and Talk Therapy Work?
We are blessed to have the Eastern Shore Trail here in Baldwin County. The Trail runs from Spanish Fort to Weeks Bay. The 22 mile trail is mostly concrete, boardwalk, or asphalt. While the Fairhope pier provides parking and a beautiful walk, it is the most crowded. There are places in Daphne that have parking and less populated trails.
Considerations & Confidentiality of Walk and Talk Therapy
You set the walking pace. Don't worry, we'll be prepared for all scenarios. During inclement weather or high temperature, we can have an online session. The choice is yours. Ultimately, my main concern is how comfortable you feel.
If we see someone along the way that you know, I will follow your lead. I do not introduce myself. That is up to you; please feel no obligation to do so. Your confidentiality and comfort level is priority.
Our first session will be virtual through online therapy. This will give us the opportunity to discuss your goals.
Beginning Walk and Talk Therapy
Sitting in an office and talking to a counselor doesn't work for everyone. Sometimes, getting movement in your body is helpful in and of itself. Bringing nature and counseling together is likely the solution you've been looking for. When you're ready to being your walk and talk therapy journey, follow these steps:
1. Schedule a free 15 minute consultation with me.
2. Get to know me, Julia, as your therapist.
3. Let’s get walking and talking outside!
Other Counseling Services Provided in the Mobile & the Eastern Shore Area
I know that we're all in different places in our lives. To be transparent, some of us are struggling with things that other people aren't affected by. In reflection of this, I offer many services. I am certified in EMDR therapy. In addition, I offer therapy for chronic stress and trauma therapy.