Hailing from The Lakes, nature and the outdoors has always been a huge part of my life. I’m passionate about promoting the positive effects physical activity can have on our minds. In the past I have found the constraints of a confined space quite daunting, so I was keen to incorporate the outdoors into my private practice. I find being outdoors a less intensive approach. Walking helps facilitate an easy flow of conversation. Nature provides a safe space where you can take a moment to breathe, think and reflect in an environment where self-exploration and personal healing can take place.
Walking therapy promotes the release of dopamine, endorphins, serotonin, oxytocin and adrenaline inside the body, creating a natural high. It also helps you to relax and process your feelings more effectively. Taking a walk within a natural setting is especially beneficial because sounds, scents and scenery help us to recall memories, thoughts and feelings in the present moment.
Speaking aloud and verbalising your thoughts and emotions lets you see them from a new perspective, instead of just in the interior of your own mind. Saying them to another person also makes you consider what their view is, meaning you can gain new ways of thinking about your problems, simply by letting them out.
Online therapy can be just as effective as face to face and it can give more flexibility in the busy world we live in today. It can offer a great sense of anonymity. It takes away geographical limitations and can often be more convenient especially if you find travelling difficult.
