In this contemplative writing retreat, we explore how meditation and mindfulness practices can stimulate the creative process and open the mind to new possibilities, with special emphasis on freeing the natural flow of the creative process and finding or deepening our most natural writing voices. We alternate meditation, mindfulness, and sensory awareness practices with writing practice and other exercises to stimulate creativity and encourage fresh ideas, and explore a variety of techniques for freeing our natural flow of expression, bypassing the inner critic, and accessing our true source of creativity. Close observation exercises, walking meditation, and mindfulness practices enhance awareness of the sensory details that supply the raw materials of our writing.

Our emphasis is on the creative process and on encouraging all participants, whether beginning or experienced, to develop their own writing styles within a supportive and inspiring environment. Some periods are spent outside. Most importantly, we rediscover the freedom, playfulness, and joy that made us want to write in the first place.

As a process-oriented rather than critically-oriented workshop, this is open to everyone from beginners to experienced writers, meditators, and mindfulness practitioners. Suitable for writers in any field, from fiction to creative non-fiction, journaling, screenplay, drama or poetry, or anyone who simply wishes to explore the contemplative side of the creative process.