10: There’s A Walk For That with Harriet Thomas - Episode 10

10: There’s A Walk For That with Harriet Thomas - Episode 10

Ever wondered what it takes to turn a simple walk into a transformative experience? Harriet Thomas's podcast, 'There's A Walk For That', explores just that. In this episode, Harriet chats with Alice Rowe, a gardener and mental health advocate who leads walks around East Anglia to combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Alice shares how her love for walking began in childhood, nurtured by family outings to the woods and coast, and how it evolved into a powerful tool for resilience and joy. As the days grow shorter, Alice discusses the impact of walking by the sea and the calming effect of nature's sounds, like birdsong, which research suggests can ease anxiety.

Harriet and Alice explore the benefits of morning light exposure as a natural remedy for SAD, with insights from Professor Deborah Skeen on how daylight affects mood and energy. The episode also delves into Alice's personal journey on the South West Coast Path, where she found freedom from a toxic relationship and a newfound love for solitude in nature.

Through her monthly walks, Alice offers soup as an 'anxiety buffer' and creates a welcoming community for people seeking connection during the darker months. The episode is a heartfelt reminder of how simple routines like walking can nurture mental health and bring people together. So, are you ready to lace up your walking boots and find your own rhythm in nature?