Earth and Body, Soil and Soul: Harvesting Poems from the Wild

A Poetry Walk Inspired by Mary Oliver

This special offering invites participants to immerse themselves in the world of renowned nature-inspired poetry, engaging in thoughtful discussions before crafting their own verses inspired by the tranquil beauty encountered during our forest bathing walk. During this workshop, we will meander, sit, breathe, move, play, and rest in the beautiful forest and meadows of a private 60-acre farm.

We will begin our time together with a serene forest bathing walk amidst towering pines, an abundance of wild medicinal flora, and the forest's perpetual melody. Drawing upon the Japanese practice of Shinrin-yoku, or "forest bathing," you will awaken your senses to the healing power of nature. By fully engaging all five senses, forest bathing invites you to form a deeper connection with yourself and the vibrant, living world around you. Participants will be invited to engage with the more-than-human world of the woods through the standard sequence of forest therapy walks as taught by the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy.

Alongside our forest bathing excursion, poet Nora Toomey will lead us in meaningful conversations to explore how forest bathing and meditative time in nature can influence the physical and mental processes involved in writing. Nora’s background is in poetry, learning how to cultivate deep self-care rituals, and opening her heart to the healing journey as it unfolds. She has an MFA in Poetry from California College of the Arts, and an Undergraduate degree in Writing and Women’s Studies. She is very excited about the intersections of poetry, sound meditation, the power of story, and plant medicine.

Through guided prompts and liberating free-flow exercises, we will rekindle our observational skills, draw inspiration from our environment, and weave our personal narratives with the natural world around us. Participants will also have the opportunity to wander solo through the woods and engage in freeform writing, enhancing their experience.

Beyond crafting our own verses, all attendees will be gifted a collection of nature-inspired poetry from some of our most loved nature poets. Together, we'll delve into reading and writing, fostering an appreciation for our deep connection with the plant world. We will conclude the afternoon by the fireside in a safe sharing circle, offering everyone a chance to share their evolving poetic creations.

Join us for a captivating afternoon where connection, reflection, and the inspiration of nature through poetry come alive.

This workshop promises to be an engaging, inclusive, and creative journey for anyone eager to deepen their connection with nature and enrich their writing practice.

Beyond crafting our own verses, all attendees will be gifted a collection of nature-inspired poetry from some of our most loved nature poets. Together, we'll delve into reading and writing, fostering an appreciation for our deep connection with the plant world. We will conclude the afternoon by the fireside in a safe sharing circle, offering everyone a chance to share their evolving poetic creations.

Join us for a captivating afternoon where connection, reflection, and the inspiration of nature through poetry come alive.

This workshop promises to be an engaging, inclusive, and creative journey for anyone eager to deepen their connection with nature and enrich their writing practice.

Details

• This offering is open to 12 women.
• No prior writing experience required—only a passion for words and the natural world.
• The address will be emailed to you the week of the event.
• Kindly bring your journals or any poetry you wish to share with the group.