Somatic Movement Therapy & Supervision sessions are also available outside, working in nature in South Devon. This might involve basing our time in a place to work together and/or taking a walk.  

I have included working 1:1 with others outside since spring 2020 and over the last 20 years have worked in nature as part of my study and training, as well as my own movement practice.

Potential Benefits from working outdoors

  • It can support the connection with our bodies, how we are physically as well as emotionally or psychologically.
  • Well documented benefits to well-being from being in contact with nature.
  • Nature can reflect back our wider life process. Like our emotions, nature and weather shift and change. There are seasons, cycles and life stages.
  • Nature can hold the counter-point to what we might bring. As we pay attention to nature, we create some internal space to have a break, recuperate or gain a new perspective.
  • It can support us being mindful and noticing internal feeling states.
  • It physically holds us and what we are exploring.
  • For some, working outside can be less intense than meeting indoors.

Why work outdoors?

It’s important to consider if this is right for you as a person and right for what brings you to therapy/supervision.

  • What’s your experience being outside? As a child, young person or adult?
  • How do you feel about the prospect of working outside? What’s your gut response?
  • Do you feel safe enough? Do you have any worries or concerns about working outside?
  • How would it be for you if it rains, is cold, windy or hot? What would support you in a practical way?
  • Does being outside support, directly or indirectly, what you want to address?

And you may not know, so if you have an interest we can try it and see.

Notes:

  • The changing weather conditions are part of the environment, so adds to the resources that we have to work with. Sessions will take place in most weathers, including wind and rain. We can make a plan together about what we’ll do in challenging weather. Assume the session is happening unless you hear otherwise. Wear the clothing you need to be comfortable enough.
  • We might encounter other people or animals as we’re working. We can make a plan as to what we’ll do if this happens, as well as sometimes incorporating your responses in relation to your work. Again ‘interuptions’ can be a resource of the changing environment.
  • We work collaboratively and look after ourselves, each other and the place.
  • Your well-being is paramount. In participating in the sessions, you are doing so at your own risk. Only do what you feel comfortable to do.
  • If you do not feel comfortable working outside in an ongoing way, this can be reviewed at any time, and any options for alternative indoor sessions discussed.
  • Please familiarise yourself with information and recommendations around Lyme Disease.

If you’re interested in working outside, please get in touch here.