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Walk with Me Hybrid Virtual/In-Person Walking for Older Adults with Neurodegenerative Disease
Published on: June 16, 2023
The healing balm effect: using a walking group to feel better
1University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, UK. pennypriest@supanet.com
Abstract:
This qualitative study combines methods from grounded theory and ethnography, exploring members' experience of a mental health day service walking group, with regards psychological benefits of the physical activity, the outdoor environment and the social setting. Data were collected via participant observation, interviews and a group discussion, and analysed using a grounded theory approach. An overall model, the Healing Balm Effect, brings together seven categories, which describe healing properties of the experience. The categories are: Closer to What is More Natural; Feeling Safe; Being Part; Striving; Getting Away; Being Me; Finding Meaning. Clinical relevance and methodological issues are discussed.
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