Who would believe it?

 This article by Rob Waugh on Press Gazette is not only a cracking piece of journalism; it also (as the author himself has said) sends you down a bit of a rabbit hole.

One of the suspect ubiquitous commenters, "Barbara Santini, a young London-based psychologist and therapist", apparently Whatsapped the editor with a threat to send in her lawyers and the assertion:

“I am an accredited consultant for Peaches and Screams and my credentials and professional affiliations are a matter of record.”

That's a sex toy retailer.

Anyway, the article cites a number of articles that the commentator who may or may not be real has been quoted in, including ‘When you walk together, you actually talk’: how daycationscan split-proof your relationships in the Guardian, albeit its Guardian Labs paid for content.

Here's the best bit:

Her thoughts are echoed by Barbara Santini, a psychologist specialising in relationships: “Walking together creates a rhythm that fosters synchrony (where you’re both in step), both physical and emotional. This shared pace naturally promotes non-verbal bonding, which is vital for emotional attunement. Additionally, the simplicity of walking allows couples to engage in unpressured dialogue, making it easier to address feelings, or simply enjoy each other’s company.”

Then there’s the sense of communion that comes from being together as you scale inclines, read maps and share sandwiches on windy summits.

Santini believes this is endlessly important for any relationship: “These shared achievements create lasting memories tied to positive emotions, cementing the relationship through mutual trust and accomplishment,” she says.

 It's bad enough hacks telling readers what someone believes, as if they can read other people's minds, but imagine credulously telling your readers what someone totally made-up believes.