29th March to 31st March 2019
Mindfull Writing
Mindful writing is a creative wellbeing activity combining mindfulness and creative writing. Incorporating guided meditation, a range of writing exercises, reading from the works of ‘mindful’ authors such as Robert Macfarlane and Laurie Lee, connecting with the senses and interacting with natural objects (rock, shells, driftwood etc.), we will learn to connect with our inner voice and create without self-judgement. Many of the exercises are collaborative, fun and playful. They encourage experimentation and combine writing with other forms of expression such as drawing, colouring and clay modelling.
Previous experience is not necessary, although some interest in words is of course beneficial. This is a non-judgemental approach where the process is as important as the result. There is no marking and sharing of creative work is optional.
*Please note, the workshops will only take place if a minimum of 10 people register per course.
MATERIALS NEEDED
Please bring your own notebooks, writing materials, laptop, any recording equipment you may have, and if you have ideas for a creative writing please bring them.
THE COURSE
*Although each of the courses has their own itineray and dates, we have created a general itinerary common to all. Please do not hesitate in contacting us for more details
|
CONTENT FOR MORNING AND AFTERNOON SESSIONS Creative workshops will vary according to the clients and time available but can include: – Introductory meditation – Writing exercises involving connecting with the senses, the natural world, natural objects (i.e. rocks, shells, leaves) – Discussion of applying mindfulness in everyday life – working with clay, drawing and coloured pens – reading from mindful texts – Going outside to a natural setting for inspiration – Sharing of creative work Format Participants (typically 12-15 people) sit around a table and are set activities under the guidance of a workshop leader (myself) who gives feedback. There is time to chat and bond although this is not imposed, and participants can take a break when they want or choose to work on their own. |
|
| Outcomes
After sessions, participants typically report feeling relaxed, inspired, feelings of gratitude, feeling encouraged, with intentions to write and/or relax more in everyday life. They also benefit from interaction within the group, make bonds and feel less isolated. Mindfulness has been shown to improve mood, confidence, concentration, effective working, relationships, sleep and physical health. |
|
| THE TUTOR | |
Tom George
|
|
Tom has been involved in music and poetry for over twenty years and been involved in projects and performances around the country with Channel 4 TV, Glastonbury festival and literary festivals. Since 2000 he has been running writing workshops in the North-West, alongside performing and publishing. Tom became interested in mindfulness and meditation five years ago to help my own mental health and wellbeing, and began incorporating mindful techniques into his work in order to pass on the insights he has gained. Organisations Tom has worked with include Liverpool Mental Health Consortium, Writing on the Wall, Toxteth Library, Sefton Carers Centre, Liverpool Wellbeing Centre, Fazakerkey Special Needs Centre and BBC Radio Merseyside Up For Arts.