Self Space, a UK mental health therapy service with an approachable retail shop feel, is offering free therapy sessions for its popular Walk Club.
“We’ve found that over half of Brits (61%) feel that they are ‘stuck in a rut’, with over half (59%) in need of a change in their lives,” says Self Space.
Self Space founders Jodie Cariss and Chance Marshall say sometimes, taking that first step out of “stuckness” and into movement is the hardest part. “So we’re inviting people to take that first step, together.”
For those not living in London, the founders said they are “resourcing the nation with meaningful conversation and walking prompts to facilitate walkie-talkies from wherever they are.”
How does Walk Club work?
Led by experienced therapists and fellow participants, everyone in the Walk Club is paired up and given conversation prompts on cards to encourage meaningful discussions during their walks.
Participants are encouraged to “leave something behind” – worries, anxieties, or anything weighing them down – as they embark on a 2.5-mile walk. The walk is guided by therapists, with prompts and discussions encouraging participants to open up and connect with others.
What can you get out of it?
Some of the positive outcomes from the August sessions include stronger interpersonal connections, reduced stress levels, increased energy, and improved overall well-being.
Why does talking and walking with strangers work?
Peripatetic teaching, rooted in the Aristotelian tradition of ancient Greece, combines walking, discussion, and deep learning. A study, the first of its kind in medical education, evaluated the impact of peripatetic teaching in small-group clinical settings.
With a 95% response rate (56/59 questionnaires), the study found high levels of satisfaction (approximately 4.7/5) with this teaching method. Additionally, each session involved an average of 1420 steps, highlighting a potential ancillary benefit of increased physical activity.
When you combine peripatetic teaching in a modern way, like walking with strangers with a joint mission of getting “unstuck” by discussing predetermined topics, participants learn something about themselves and gain a new perspective. The new surroundings can act as a pleasant distraction, too. The process encourages walkers to leave something behind, whether it’s a negative thought process that is keeping them from enjoying the simple things in life and understanding others are dealing with struggles.
Why is Walk Club useful for freelancers?
For freelancers, who often grapple with the isolation and pressures of their work, these findings hold particular relevance. With flexible schedules and the ability to work from anywhere, freelancers can easily incorporate walks into their daily routines. A brisk walk during a break can offer a much-needed mental refresh, fostering creativity and focus.
Moreover, walking can provide a valuable opportunity for freelancers to step away from their screens and connect with the outside world. This can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, fostering a sense of belonging and community.
This unique blend of exercise and therapy resonates with the challenges faced by many freelancers. The opportunity to step away from the daily grind, engage in meaningful conversations, and gain fresh perspectives can be invaluable for those working independently.
Walking the Talk: Embrace the Movement
The report serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising mental health, particularly in the fast-paced world of freelancing. Walking offers a simple yet effective way to improve mental well-being, boost productivity, and create a more balanced and fulfilling work life. Whether it’s a solitary stroll or a guided group walk, incorporating this activity into your routine can bring about positive change.
So next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, lace up your shoes and take a walk – your mind will thank you for it. As one participant in the Walk Club shared, “Remembering the baggage I left behind — feelings of negativity and resentment — reminds me to shed some positive light on the situation, too… And it feels good.”
Find your closest Self Space location.
