Miriam runs Miriam Ricci Coaching and is co-founder of Railwalks. She’s a keen supporter of Bristol Walk Fest and has been well involved with this year’s festival.
Can you tell us more about these organisations?
My business, Miriam Ricci Coaching, is all about supporting people’s holistic wellbeing through creative nature-based activities, mindful physical activity, and coaching. Railwalks.co.uk is a volunteer-led initiative promoting and facilitating recreational walking by rail in the UK.
Railwalks was set up by a group of walkers to create and share walks between railway stations and to encourage people to use the rail network for walking. On the website you will find thousands of options for walks of all kinds, all over the country. Mission Statement: To encourage people to use the rail network for recreational walking by showing them how easy and enjoyable is to do and by providing materials to help them to do it.)
Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
Originally from Italy, I have lived in the UK for over 20 years, 16 of those here in Bristol, where I live with my daughter.
After many years working in Higher Education as a research leader exploring how sustainable transport can promote wellbeing and social inclusion, I set up my own business to make a more tangible impact on people’s lives through my passion for mindful movement, walking and connecting with nature outdoors.
Apart from my academic qualifications, I hold a certificate in Personal & Business Coaching and a L3 diploma in Mat Pilates.
What’s your involvement in Bristol Walk Fest?
I have taken part in the festival as a participant for several years (and joined us for the launch walk and talk this year!), then this year I decided to offer my own walks (walk & stretch for wellbeing and a netwalk in Ashton Court) and also with Railwalks.
What’s your favourite place to walk in Bristol?
It’s difficult for me to pick a favourite place or route to walk in Bristol, as it often depends on my state of mind and what I need on a particular day.
If I need time alone to reflect and recharge, I’ll head to places like Leigh Woods or Ashton Court. If I want an easier walk and don’t mind being around people, I often wander around the Harbourside.
Sometimes I feel drawn to water and need to be near the movement and sound of a flowing river. On those days I’ll walk along the Avon or the Frome, seek out the hidden Malago, or follow one of the many brooks that weave through the city.
During lockdown, when I was living in Redcliffe, I discovered a circular walk from Temple Meads that became a daily ritual after long hours working in front of a screen. The route followed the Avon, crossed the Sparke Evans Park Bridge, then climbed through Arnos Vale Cemetery, Perrett’s Park and Victoria Park before looping back to Temple Meads. It was the perfect way to decompress and reconnect with myself, the city and nature.
Why is it special / what do you like about it?
This walk is special because it reminds me of how much support I got from walking in nature during the pandemic, in terms of looking after my mental health. I did not know what to expect the first time I walked the route, and was a bit apprehensive. Then it became so important for my wellbeing. Now the Sparke Evans bridge has re-opened I intend to walk there more often.
Who do you like to walk with and why?
It really depends. Often I walk on my own if I need time alone to reflect or simply be outdoors and reconnect with myself and nature. I love walking with my daughter and often we plan a whole day out somewhere to walk together. I also like walking with a friend especially if I haven’t seen them for a while and we want to catch up.
I sometimes join group walks and enjoy meeting people and talking even if that’s the first time I meet them. I find conversations a lot easier while walking, unless I am hiking on a steep hill!
How do you feel when you’re out for a walk? Does it change your state of mind?
For me walking is like a magic pill, I always feel better when I am out on a walk – my mind becomes clearer, my body feels better and less stiff, and I feel more energised and resourced to the challenges that the day might throw at me.
The only times I did not get these beneficial impacts were linked to an unpleasant experience, normally related to men behaving inappropriately rather than the weather not being great! Luckily it has not happened very often and I am undeterred, but as a woman I am always vigilant.
Have you experienced any health benefits from walking?
I sometimes get pain in my hips after sitting for a while at my desk, so walking really helps with that. I have a reasonably active life and good health overall, which I believe walking is an important contributor to.
Anything else you’d like to say about the benefits walking gives you or those around you?
I often practise mindfulness and meditation while walking, which I prefer to sitting meditation as sitting can cause physical pain for me. Mindful walking simply means noticing what’s going on in my mind, my body and through my senses while I walk. It is a simple practice that can help ground oneself.
Podcast, music or peace and quiet when walking?
I prefer to walk without any headphones or other devices, even in the city. Part of it is to be aware of what’s happening around me, but also because I want to be there with whatever is there along the route. When I am away from the city noises I love walking and listening to the sound of my steps, birdsong and all the natural sounds.
What are your walking top tips?
Try out a new route every now and again – discovering new things and new places is good for our creativity and wellbeing. There are also lots of walks accessible by public transport and rail, in and outside Bristol, more than many people think.
What’s your favourite bit of kit?
My favourite walking kit includes cushioned insoles that I’ve added to my shoes to make walking more comfortable and supportive. I would not leave my flask at home, I love having my hot tea (or cold drink) during a walk.
Any books / websites / social media that inspire you? Why?
I loved reading Anita Sethi’s book I Belong Here, where she tells of her solo journey along the Pennine Way in response to a race-hate crime she experienced. As a woman, I found it deeply inspiring, particularly in the way it spoke to resilience, presence, and the experience of moving through the landscape alone with strength and openness.
As one of founders of Railwalks, I have to mention our website as a wonderful source of inspiration and information on walks accessible by rail across Britain, in the countryside and along the coast.
Any organisations whose work you admire? Why?
I obviously am a big fan of the people behind Bristol Walk Fest, you’re amazing! Then Hana Sutch and the team at Go Jauntly, the walking app, for making walking and following a route fun and easy.
I am a member of the Ramblers because I fully support their work and their commitment to protecting and improving access to the countryside, ensuring that walking routes are open, inclusive, and available for everyone to enjoy.
What does Bristol Walk Fest do for the city? Why do you think it’s important?
Bristol Walk Fest brings people across the city together to celebrate walking and explore Bristol on foot. It encourages people to discover familiar and unfamiliar places in a different way, often in community. It’s important because it supports wellbeing, connection and a stronger relationship with the city’s green spaces, streets and waterways, helping people experience Bristol in many different ways.
Get in touch with Miriam:
Email: miriam@miriamriccicoaching.com
Website: https://www.miriamriccicoaching.com/
Instagram: @miriam_ricci_coach
Facebook: Miriam Ricci Coaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miriamricci/