Tucson Walk & Talk
Improve Your Physical & Mental Health
I recently returned to Tucson after being away for 20 years, and have grown to love walking and practicing tai chi and qigong at Reid Park. I find being outside walking lifts my mood, clears my mind, and helps me feel more relaxed and focused.
I felt encouraged to offer the Walk & Talk as an option, after reading all the research surrounding "ecotherapy." Physical activity is extremely important to our physical health and mental well being. So important that physical activity is seen as just as effective in the treatment of clinical depression and as psychotherapy or medication particularly in the long term.
What is Walk & Talk? How does it work?
Instead of us being in the traditional office setting, we walk side by side at a comfortable pace. You will find that walking in nature makes it easier to share about difficult issues, such as relationship concerns, addictions or anxiety, or the specific areas in your life you want to improve. Walk & Talk can be beneficial for people suffering from depression, anxiety, life transition or simply need to reduce tension or fatigue.
We will go around the park or on one of the many paths in the Central Tucson area to literally get some forward motion going in your life. In addition to the physical benefits of regulating your blood pressure, reducing stress and increasing serotonin levels, you will find it to be just as effective and productive as a session where we are sitting together.
Get out of the office and off the couch, onto your path for change.
Is it Effective?
Throughout my career I would often meet with clients in the community, not in the office. I found that the informal setting and walking activity alleviated the initial anxiety that is common when talking about difficult issues. Everyone is quick to notice how much better they feel after combining exercise, the outdoors and professional support when meeting for individual sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do we meet?
We can meet on any of the walking paths in Reid Park. While I am flexible in location, I only consider locations that provide safety, a flat terrain and a setting that allows for important conversation.
Is this a type of workout?
No. This is slow to moderate walking, not fast walking. There is nothing physically strenuous, and you can go at your own pace, sitting down at any time. All fitness levels can benefit, and you can bring your dog or stroller if you like.
Are sessions confidential?
Yes. Sessions that includes walking still adhere to all the same guidelines of typical in-office sessions. All discussions are still kept confidential, and therapeutic boundaries are to be maintained at all times.
Typical times?
I like to go out in the early morning or after 4pm. Most people choose a session before work or after work. One of my main goals is to make this as convenient and enjoyable as possible, so the time of day and weather are always considered.