Walk & Talk Outdoor Therapy
New Year and Spring dates coming soon!
*Dates subject to sufficient numbers and place availability. In rare instance of retreat cancellation, transfer to another date or full refund will be offered.
Three-day Walking Therapy Retreat
Available for an informal chat about the programme 7 days a week
Service Overview
Embark on a transformative three-day walking therapy retreat meticulously designed to blend the healing power of nature with profound personal growth. Hosted at the picturesque Rydal Hall Estate in Ambleside, this retreat offers a unique opportunity to explore the serene beauty of the Lake District National Park, whilst engaging in a journey of self-discovery and renewal.
What You Will Experience:
Guided Walks: Our experienced team will guide you through some of the Lake District's most awe-inspiring landscapes. Each walk is carefully chosen to inspire reflection and connection with the natural world.
Reflective Activities: Throughout the retreat, engage in thoughtfully curated activities designed to foster self-awareness and pinpoint personal aspirations and needs.
Personal Counselling Sessions:
You will benefit from two one-on-one counselling sessions with either John or Tony, including a special session on the trail, which provides a unique backdrop for insightful dialogue and introspection.
Follow-up Counselling: Continue your journey of personal growth with a follow-up session after the retreat, ensuring ongoing support and guidance.
Transport and Meals: Enjoy the convenience of private coach transport to all walking venues and nutritious meals provided throughout your stay, allowing you to focus wholly on your therapeutic experience.
Please get in touch using our Contact Form below.
What is walk-and-talk therapy?
Outdoor walk-and-talk therapy allows the therapist and client to communicate in a natural outdoor setting while walking. The exact working agreement and therapeutic relationship apply to traditional face-to-face sessions. However, some extra factors are to be considered, which will be discussed below. The main goal is to work together to solve problems and improve relationships, leading to personal growth and development.
Why might I like to try walking therapy as an alternative?
Specific clients find it easier to open up and communicate while walking with their therapist than sitting in a traditional face-to-face interaction. Being outdoors can enhance the connection with nature and the surrounding environment. This environment also allows for more chances to practice grounding and mindfulness exercises, if desired.
Physical activity such as walking also provides secondary mental and physical health benefits, even though this is considered a secondary advantage. Walking outside can reduce stress, help solve problems, and make clients feel more comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings.
How will it work?
Initially, we prefer to meet with clients in the therapy room before suggesting walking therapy. Once a therapeutic alliance has been established, it could be beneficial. If the client is interested, we can explore the option of a walking session.
Sessions will either begin outside at a designated location or from the therapy room. The sessions will last 60 minutes as usual, and the walks may be circular or involve turning back to the starting point, depending on the route chosen. Some routes will offer opportunities to pause and reflect, which some clients may find beneficial. The therapist will initially determine the routes, but decisions will be made collaboratively with the client over time.
How is it different to being in the room?
Confidentiality is the main difference, as it cannot be guaranteed in the same way as outside. We will do our best to ensure privacy and discuss the issues around this when we start. If we encounter someone, the therapist will lead the conversation and ensure we can quickly return to our session. We will discuss dealing with these situations at the beginning of walking and talking therapy.
Another difference is less direct eye contact when walking side by side compared to face-to-face sessions. Some clients prefer this and find it allows them to engage in walk-and-talk therapy more easily.
Do I need special equipment?
No – It is best to wear suitable clothing for walking outside in weather-appropriate clothing and accessories.
Do I need to be fit?
No, the client will set the pace as much as possible. The therapist will keep track of time and be mindful about when to return to the starting point. If there are any medical concerns, please discuss these with your GP.
What if the weather is bad?
The therapist will have checked out the route in advance, considering general suitability for walking and maintaining confidentiality within reason. If a walking session has been agreed upon, we will happily walk in most weather. If the client is comfortable walking in the current weather, the session will continue as planned.
What if I decide it isn't for me?
As with all types of talking therapy, we encourage clients to discuss any issues and consider how to resolve them. Therapy sessions can continue in person or on Zoom if walking doesn't work.
I have sessions in the therapy room, but would like to try walking?
You can begin with a trial walking session. Afterwards, you can meet in person to discuss what works best for future sessions. Walking therapy, like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), is an evidence-based approach that can help with anxiety and depression.
Are the fees the same?
Yes – the same fee structure applies.
If you are interested in joining this unique Walking Therapy Retreat or would like more information on how to find a therapist offering walk-and-talk therapy, don't hesitate to get in touch with Stone In My Boot through the contact form on their website.
Please get in touch using our Contact Form below.
Hosted at the stunning Rydal Hall Estate, Ambleside
Program include:
£550 per person
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Three-day programme to include guided walks through some of the most stunning scenery in the Lake District National Park.
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Reflective activities throughout the three days aimed at developing self-awareness and identifying needs.
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Two personal counselling sessions - one on trail with John or Tony.
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Follow-up counselling session after the programme.
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Private coach transport to and from all walking venues.
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All meals provided throughout the programme.
Should you wish to join Stone In My Boot or find out more,
Please get in touch using our Contact Form below.