Embodied Writing
‘Embodied writing seeks to reveal the lived experience of the body by portraying in words the finely textured experience of the body and evoking sympathetic resonance in readers’ (Rosemary Anderson)
Whether you are writing a lyric or personal essay, or other forms of creative nonfiction, or even writing in other genres, you will know that writing is an act of listening and a way of perceiving; a way of coming to know something as if for the first time. While there are many pathways into this territory, Embodied Writing opens a wide gate to the senses, perception, and listening, and brings to awareness themes or snippets for reflection on our life journey.
Embodied Writing is a unique writing process first developed for use in depth psychology research, as it is a simple, yet effective way of easing below the surface of our life to listen to what’s there; what’s waiting to arise; what’s longing to be lived; what’s blocking the way, and more. When we combine this with connecting with nature we bring an exciting perspective to our experience of being in the wild.
Too, research suggests nature connection may increase wellbeing in ways that cannot be achieved by other means. These benefits are enhanced when we bring attention to our experiences in a range of ways, for example, through noticing the detail of nature, including birdsong, and how this feels in our body. So Embodied Writing is a practice to increase creativity, and for taking in nature benefits (via nature connection pathways) which also boosts creativity.
This writing day consists of an introduction to the seven processes of Embodied Writing, and explorations designed to help you discern your growing edges and capture what may arise. Time will be spent on your own as well as in a facilitated group, where plenty of opportunity will be given to discuss and process your experience.
Practicalities
Place: Northumberland National Park
Date/times: Saturday 2027 date TBC | 10.00am to 4.00pm
Walk difficulty: Leisurely
Fee: £50 | 6 places