Imagine taking your thoughts for a stroll, sharing them out loud while walking in fresh air. That’s what walk and talk therapy, or outdoor therapy, is all about. It blends traditional psychotherapy with the natural rhythm of movement, making the process less intimidating and more human. If the idea of sitting in a closed room feels stifling, this approach creates space to breathe, both physically and emotionally. Walking alongside a counsellor can feel like talking to a trusted companion, helping the conversation flow naturally while reaping the calming benefits of being outdoors. It’s proof that a little movement can go a long way for the mind and soul.

With mental health problems taking the lead as the most frequent noncommunicable disease in the modern world, treading on a path to explore interventions that are in sync with nature is essential. To understand the same, our team at OnlyMyHealth connected with an expert,

According to Dr Saraswathi, walk and talk therapy, or outdoor therapy, integrates movement with traditional psychotherapy by conducting sessions in an outdoor setting. Walking alongside a counsellor can help clients who struggle to open up in closed-room sessions, improving rapport and enhancing the therapeutic process. 

A recent study discovered that moving in sync with another person can boost self-esteem. Additionally, research highlights that spending time in natural outdoor settings nurtures not just physical health but also emotional and spiritual well-being. It fosters a deeper sense of connection, encouraging individuals to perceive themselves as part of a larger, interdependent community of life.

In an experimental study involving 40 participants (31 women) experiencing burnout and stress-related issues, half participated in a walk and talk therapy program, while the rest formed a passive control group. Findings revealed that those who engaged in walk and talk sessions showed greater improvements in burnout symptoms, stress levels, mental health, and overall well-being compared to the control group.

Corroborating this, Dr Saraswathi lists two primary benefits,

Dr Saraswathi says, “Most of us have jobs that keep us stuck at the work desk, which is why we lead a sedentary lifestyle. Despite being aware of the importance of exercising or working out, it can be viewed as a chore or another thing to fit in our day-to-day schedule. The truth is we can still incorporate some form of mindful movements throughout the day regardless of what our job and lifestyle entails.” She emphasises on the impact lack of movement has on mental health, and lists four essential pointers.

Reduced Productivity Impairs,

Mental Health Risks Contribute To,

Dr. Saraswathi highlights that movement triggers the release of “feel-good” hormones such as endorphins, dopamine, oxytocin, and serotonin. These neurochemicals improve mood, boost motivation, and support healthier brain cells through BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor).

Exercise also enhances brain function by improving blood circulation and regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The HPA axis interacts with key brain areas like:

• : Supports memory formation and emotional regulation

In a world where mental health challenges are on the rise, walk and talk therapy offers a refreshing and effective approach to healing. By combining movement with traditional psychotherapy, it not only enhances the therapeutic process but also addresses the detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle. The calming influence of nature, paired with the physical and mental benefits of movement, creates a holistic pathway to improved well-being. As Dr. Saraswathi emphasises, even small, mindful movements can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional health, proving that taking steps, both literally and metaphorically, can lead to a healthier life.