As summer unfurls its welcoming arms, we feel a natural pull towards the outdoors. The warming sun gently coaxes us outside, while the longer days and hopefully reduced rain showers (fingers crossed!) invite us to enjoy various activities.

From running to cycling, or simply embracing the pleasure of a quiet stroll, there are countless ways to enjoy the summer season. For many, including myself, one of the most cherished activities is walking coaching. This holistic method of coaching pairs the therapeutic elements of walking with the transformative power of personal growth and self-discovery.

Walking coaching isn’t just about movement; it’s about rediscovering our roots, reconnecting with our innate wisdom, and tapping into the profound benefits that come from simple acts we often take for granted. As summer unfolds its bounty, perhaps it is time again to embark on a transformative journey by merely putting one foot in front of the other.

I find that

Every step you take in walking coaching isn’t just a move forward, it’s an exploration into the depths of your mind and a stride towards self-discovery and growth.

There’s a compelling body of evidence that supports the efficacy of walking coaching, underpinned by fascinating neuroscience. When we walk, our bodies naturally release endorphins – those incredible feel-good hormones that spark a sense of happiness and positivity.

Endorphins’ main purpose is to minimize discomfort and block the feeling of pain by stimulating pleasure centres, many of which even lead to euphoria. These powerful biochemicals ignite creativity, facilitate clarity of thought, and enhance problem-solving skills.

The act of walking can help to regulate our stress levels. By promoting the reduction of cortisol – our primary stress hormone – walking inherently encourages relaxation. This reduction in tension subsequently fosters an openness to new ideas, creating an environment ripe for insight and transformation.

Studies have shown that walking, particularly in the tranquil setting of nature, can significantly bolster our focus and concentration. The act of stepping away from our desks, our screens, and our perpetual busyness allows our prefrontal cortex – the brain’s central hub for decision-making and goal-oriented behaviours – to take a well-earned rest. This ‘brain break’ shifts the dynamics within our minds, moving the conscious, analytical mind to the back seat and allowing our intuitive, creative subconscious to take the wheel.

This shift can result in the emergence of fresh perspectives and novel solutions to challenges that may have previously seemed insurmountable. The uncluttered, expansive surroundings mirror the freeing up of cognitive space, inviting a flow of ideas that may have remained hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Those that know me well, hear me talk about a wood that I am fortunate enough to live close to. In Autumn, I spend time watching the falling oak leaves, reflecting and celebrating the circle of life. (Queue song….)

In my own practice, whether I’m in a walk and talk coaching session with clients or practising self-coaching, I find this method deeply liberating. Every session is an adventure, a voyage of self-discovery that often leaves me returning home with an invigorated sense of purpose. My steps become more purposeful, my mind brims with focused, actionable ideas, and I carry a renewed sense of energy that radiates through every facet of my life.

A few years ago, I managed a coaching session outdoors on Zoom. This was like virtual coaching walking – a bit strange at the start but also significantly liberating. I had six people online, each exploring their own space and managing their own experience. Liberating, innovative and different.

When was the last time you breathed in the fragrance of fresh air, felt the ground beneath your feet, or simply paused to admire the beauty of nature? Perhaps it’s time to step outside, not just physically, but metaphorically as well – to explore the paths less travelled in your mind. Walking coaching offers an escape from the confinement of traditional coaching methods and provides an enriching, multi-sensory experience that combines physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Allow summer’s inviting landscape to become the canvas upon which you paint your journey to self-improvement. Listen to the rustling of leaves, the songs of birds, and the gentle whispering of the wind – they all tell a story, a story of nature’s unyielding resilience, growth and renewal. It’s a story we can all resonate with, particularly in our quest for personal growth.

Although I write this as a summer activity, walking coaching is a year-round opportunity. Taking in the freshness of the cold air after a recent snowfall, watching as the melt waters wash away memories of another year.

Remember, every journey starts with a single first step.

As we move into the heart of summer, it’s the perfect time to engage with this most natural form of coaching – walking coaching. It’s an opportunity to listen, learn, reflect, and discover – about the world around us and, more importantly, about ourselves.

As you feel the warm summer breeze, let it carry away your doubts and fears, and step forward into the realm of endless possibilities.