Immerse yourself and your practice in nature! When we write outdoors, we allow our minds to relax, unlocking creativity and letting our stories flow.
In this nature writing workshop, participants will combine the arts of forest bathing and reflective writing to help our creative practice develop more naturally. It has been proven that spending time outdoors lowers stress and allows our minds to relax. Imagine what creativity may flow from that state!
“If poetry comes not as naturally as leaves to a tree, it better not come at all.”
John Keats
Inspiration often strikes when we are in nature because we are connecting with a universal life-force that, in our chaotic lives, we often overlook. Together we will spend time meandering through forests or parks, paying attention to the natural world around us, while simultaneously keeping our minds open to whatever may come. We will then use purposeful self-reflective practice (called “reflexive” writing) to do some free-writing exercises, read and respond to nature poetry, and even write some of our own.
Participants need not share their work, unless they want to, and writing will not be judged. This is a safe and supportive space in which to reconnect to the pure joy of writing. No experience is necessary; just bring a notebook and a pen!
What is reflexive writing?
Reflexive, or purposeful self-reflective, writing is based on the expressive art of therapeutic writing (like art therapy, but with words!). Participants will learn why writing is a healing tool and how we can all use it. This class is not about writing well, but about using writing for well-being. That being said, remember that writing can unlock deep emotion; this class is not meant to replace professional therapy.
Please note: Writing Naturally workshops take place outdoors so dress accordingly and consider the accessibility of this event’s location.
Facilitated by Carolyn Grisold, M.A., Innings Gate Co.’s reflexive writing workshops have been running since 2014. Carolyn’s graduate studies focused on using reflexive writing as a way to help prevent workplace burnout, and there are many other benefits to this expressive art – such as rejuvenating our inner artist, developing a sanctuary through regular creative practice or simply finding more joy in daily life.
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