Now that I work from my home office, I have the great joy of walking my dog two times each day. I live in Heidelberg near some really beautiful parkland just five minutes from the Yarra River and 20 minutes’ walk to the Museum of Modern Art, Heide.

Some days I still need to commute to work, including those days when I drive to the airport. But when I’m at home I use what was previously my daily commute to walk the dog. Being out in the weather connects me to the seasons. No more office air conditioning for me. I’m out in it rain, hail and shine. And I love it.

The opportunity to connect to nature, and be in the moment, is great for my physical health and my general well being. It’s like a mega dose of vitamins for my soul.

In my work as a coach I work with people who are committed to improving the health and well-being of our community. Many of them tackle complex human problems on a daily basis and come face to face with the best and worst of human nature. It’s a great privilege to work with these individuals and to support them in their work. In this context the topic of self-care and the value of the “pause” is often discussed.

For me the daily walk is like hitting a giant pause button and is my best, and most effective, self-care strategy. If you’d like to follow the adventures of the luckiest dog in Heidelberg he’s on Instagram look for @blueykoop or to know more about the MH benefits of walking click here.