As a holistic therapist, I integrate movement into therapy to create an immersive, embodied experience. One of the best ways to achieve this is through walk therapy. Walk therapy is an out-of-the-box approach to individual counseling where the two of us will leave behind the physical boundaries of the office or the virtual boundaries of telehealth that may cause disconnect, and step outside into nature. Side by side, we walk and talk in nature where you have ample space to explore your mind and feelings in an expansive environment.

 

I could tell you about all the research that boasts the multitude of benefits that walking has on your mental and physical health, but I'd rather you rely on personal experience. 

 

If you've ever gone for a walk to alleviate your stress, to calm your heart and mind, to uplift your spirit, or to get clarity when you've felt confused and unsure, then you already know that walking is medicine.

 

When we combine walking with nature, we get even more benefits.

 

Walking in natural settings helps you to connect to your body and to the natural world around you, allowing space for your "soft animal"-- the primal, instinctual, wild and free parts of yourself that you so frequently disconnect from to survive in this modern world-- to play. 

 

Walk therapy is an immersive experience that invites your body to receive what it needs. 

 

Sometimes we focus on breathing, exploring your sensory experience, and processing issues and problems, or aspects of personal development in this ambulatory manner. Sometimes we just stop, sit and reflect on the discussion we have had. Sometimes we just sit and look at the sky, the water or the trees around us, alive in the sense of presence as you explore posture, physical feelings of the sun, the wind or the rain on you.

 

Immersing yourself in nature helps to calm your flight/fight/freeze response allowing you to feel connected, safe, and present. In this parasympathetic state, you are able to have a more enriching and embodied therapeutic experience that will allow a felt sense of deep transformation where you can feel more regulated, grounded, and calm in your mind and body.