Upgrade presents: Walk & Talk
Facilitated deep conversations with strangers, while taking an early morning walk in or around Edinburgh.
Select date and time
Location
Lady and The Bear (meet across the road on the grass)
1 Hope Park Terrace Edinburgh EH8 9LZ United KingdomAgenda
Theme - August 16: "How we show ourselves kindness"
About this event
Upgrade presents: Walk & Talk
Are you someone who likes having a deep chat with people from time to time, but don't seem to find many opportunities? That's precisely what these sessions are designed for.
The idea is simple:
- We meet as a group of (mostly) strangers
- You'll be introduced to the morning's theme by Demis (a trained facilitator, and firm believer in the power of talk.)
- You'll be invited to find your way into loose clusters of people as we begin our walking route, with a specific question or topic to get the conversation going.
- Every now and then we'll stop, we'll have a chat as a group, you'll be seeded another layer the question/topic, and on we go.
Designed to last about 90 minutes, the invitation is to really allow yourself to connect with your inner self, and share some of that with the people you're walking in a relaxed way. It's not a debate - there's no cleverness or ego to it. There's just a chance for you to speak about your feelings a little, listen to those you've found yourself walking with, and embrace that sense of connection a good walk and talk has the power to bring.
The next session: we'll be walking on August 16, 07:30-09:00, starting at one end of The Meadows (see the event details). We'll be taking a gentle loop around the base of Arthur's Seat (and no, we won't be climbing it... this time!!) then winding up back at a great little cafe to finish, with opportunities for a coffee/snack for those who want to keep things going!
The theme: "How We Show Ourselves Kindness"
This is open to everyone able to keep a gentle walking pace over flat to medium terrain.
The admission is FREE - simply sign up to reserve your spot, as numbers will be limited.
See you there??
Frequently asked questions
Just yourself, some comfortable walking shoes, and anything else you might need for a 90-minute morning walk. eg. water bottles etc. There aren't many toilets around and open at that time of day, so keep that in mind too!
Umbrellas are your friend! Unless there's a significant weather warning in play, we'd still be aiming to give the session a go, regardless of the weather. If it's wet, bring whatever you need to stay comfortable!
Sure! You only need to participate as much as you're comfortable with, even if that's just listening. We aim to keep the vibe super-chilled, and especially welcome those who want to use it to step a little out of their shells.` And remember this is facilitated - we've got your back! :)
Yes. We outline a couple of basic ground rules about confidentiality and respect at the start of any Upgrade session, so you can rest assured your words and feelings are as safe and confidential as they can possibly be, given we're out having a walk in public spaces.
Yes - well-behaved dogs are most welcome! Just be mindful of the others in the group - there may be folks who aren't ok with furry friends, so we'd only ask that you respect others' limits in that situation, and choose your walking buddies accordingly!
Yes. Our new website is launching very soon, but for the moment, please follow @upgrade_talkspace over on Instagram, or @upgradetalkspace on Facebook. Instagram is our primary social media option though, so drop Demis a DM there, or email demis@upgrade.place
Yes. There are no limitations on this group whatsoever, apart from the fact it involves walking - if you're someone unable to walk on flat-to-medium terrain for 90 minutes, then you might want to consider Upgrade's other talk spaces, including the Deep Talk Sessions (held indoors)
Organized by
Upgrade has one mission: to help people elevate their lives by providing spaces for deeper talk.
Based in central Edinburgh, Upgrade was founded by Demis Lyall-Wilson in late 2024. For more information about this or other Upgrade events, don't hesitate to get in touch!