Arianna Merritt, M.Ed.

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"COFFEE, TALK, and a WALK"

One of the best mantras that I have incorporated into my life over the past several years is what I call “Coffee, Talk, and a Walk.” (c)

If you are stressed, need to sort out an issue, or just want to feel even better overall, I suggest you take part in this mantra as well.

Some of my happiest and most favourite times involve these three things. You can do this process alone or with others. 

Let me break the mantra down for you, “Coffee, talk, and a walk.”

The first is COFFEE.

In our society, many individuals hang out at coffee shops.  This beverage seems to unite people.  You don’t really hear anymore, “Let’s hang out.” Instead you’ll hear “Let’s go for coffee.” Many important discussions have taken place with this beverage present.

It isn’t even just about the coffee; you can get any type of drink.   Just the task of inviting someone or some people to join you for coffee can add excitement and joy to your day.  It is great because the process of asking someone to join you for a coffee, can sometimes push you out of your comfort zone, as you will have to interact and talk with the person.

It is also a way to ask for help if you need it.  Coffee and tea shops are now community hubs where people gather.

So go out or invite people over for a coffee.

The second is TALK.

I love this part.  I love catching up with old friends and meeting new ones.

This is a time to share stories and your life experiences with others. It is also a time to listen to the other persons too.  I have been out for coffee where the other person spends the entire time talking and has no interest in my life, my activities, or my point of view – let me tell you it’s not fun. So make it two-way: allow time for both of you to share.

Having a great and deep conversation really touches my heart. Put your phones and other distractions away and connect with the person who is taking time out of their busy schedule to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences with you.

 Over the past several years, I have switched from talking about light topics to deep topics where I share what I’m dealing with.  It has made such a difference.  The switch happened when a good friend told me, as he called it, to “stop talking about the weather.”

DIG DEEP and share your experiences with others.

It is really important to have friends in your life who you can talk to about everything. Even when you are silly and overthink, they won’t judge you.  This is really important for your mental health and a happy life!

When it comes to the people your surround yourself with, it isn’t about quantity; it’s about quality.

This process can also be done by yourself. If you don’t want to go with anyone, you can go to a coffee shop and be alone with your thoughts to think things over or you can bring a journal/laptop and write.  Writing is good to clear your head and get your thoughts on paper.  Also, a new environment to think may inspire you to see a new perspective.

Lastly, is a WALK. 

This doesn’t have to be a walk; it can be any type of exercise as long as you are active. I firmly believe that a healthy body is important for a healthy mind.  Exercise always makes you feel better.  My walk is usually one by a lake or an ocean as water soothes my soul.

You could go to an exercise class and then have your coffee and talk afterwards.  I like to go for a row, run, or a swim, and then go for coffee and a talk afterwards.

Or you could get your coffee to go, and go for a walk with a friend.

The specific details of how you manifest this mantra aren’t important; just as long as the three components are there. It’s just that you get out there, connect with someone or with yourself on a deeper level, have a great conversation, and make sure to be active.  These are important aspects that I have incorporated into my daily life which have made a world of difference!

“Coffee, talk, and a walk.” Enjoy!

Thank you for reading and your presence at this beach retreat. You Rock! I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts in the comment section below.

See you at the beach!