Emily Brinnand – aka Brinny – is a Brighton-based mind and body coach, a qualified PT and life coach. They help lead walks with LGTBQ+ walking group Queer Out Here.

Hey Brinny! Have you always been into hiking?

I was that kid who used to spend hours outside, making massive walking sticks out of branches and being covered in dirt. It was having a ritual of going walking with my family every Sunday that hooked me into nature and getting outdoors. I also used to go for regular weekend walks with my grandma.

Later on, I went to uni in Sheffield and discovered the joy of ‘proper’ hiking. I’d escape the city and head into the Peaks with a mate or by myself. It was amazing to have that free, unrestricted time to just breathe and be free, and that’s when my love of nature and walking evolved into what it is today. When I feel stuck, I go walking. When I need connection, I go walking. I’m like that puppy that needs to get outside.

Tales From The Trails: “Queer people deserve to know that they’re good enough to enjoy nature”