The Londoners Walking Their Way to Better Mental Health

Therapists are creating walking groups to “support people outside of the therapy room, getting us outdoors, off our phones and connecting with new people.” They create intentionality by asking people to: metaphorically leave something behind; have an open mind; be mindful of their surroundings; individually choose a concern on which to focus; and the therapist walks along to help nurture the conversation. In addition to relieving loneliness, people may relate to stories from others similar to their own, and it helps people listen with empathy without a need to “fix". “Sometimes, taking that first step out of stuck-ness and into movement is the hardest part. So, we’re inviting people to take that first step, together.”

Be The Change

Look around for a walking group in your community, or start your own. Follow a few of the guidelines from the story. See what new paths open up for you.

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