28. May 2026

Getting out of our comfort zones

'Getting out of your comfort zone' is a phrase that I use regularly with clients. It's a phrase that many of use in our daily lives.

I was out of my comfort zone recently. I attended a Wellness Day organised by Leanne Richardson of LR Sports and Wellbeing Therapy. We got the itinerary in advance and the second activity made my heart sink a little. It was a walk which incorporated music and dancing. This immediately made me feel self-conscious. It triggered memories of being a teenager in clubs, feeling stiff and awkward and envying everyone on the dancefloor who seemed to be able to move their bodies with such ease.

So when the time came I was nervous. But I knew that I didn't want to sit it out. I wanted to break through that barrier - get out of my comfort zone. The session was run by Lyndsay of Silent Steppers. We all got headphones and listened to some upbeat pop classics as we walked to our first dance spot. When we got there I .....danced! It was great!

As we walked and danced we could hear Lyndsay through our headphones encouraging us along. As I danced, alongside about thirty other people, I was looking up into the branches of an old horse chestnut tree. Its spring leaves were bright green against the blue sky and it really didn't matter how accomplished a dancer I was. I was simply having a good time, in the company of lovely people, enjoying the fresh air and moving my body. Nature, companionship, movement - all treats for our nervous systems and our mental health.

Thanks to Leanne for organising such a lovely day and to the Lyndsay and the Silent Steppers for reminding me of the rewards of getting out of my comfort zone.