Learn to Write with the Earth

Photo by Susanne Kappler

Yesterday on the Oregon coast, I decided to write with the earth. I had a vision of what I wanted to do, I gathered my tools-- a pen, a small piece of driftwood, and a log-- and I set out to begin.

Photo by Susanne Kappler

Our writing projects often start out this way: we have an idea, we gather our tools and then we start.

But then it gets hard. It takes longer than we think. Our bodies ache, our minds get distracted, we become frustrated that this isn't turning out the way we dreamed.

Photo by Susanne Kappler

At this point, it's good to pause. Step back. Honor what you've already done. Alter your original vision to fit the scope of what is do-able given your time constrictions and bodymindspirit capacities. And most importantly, ask for help.

Photo by Susanne Kappler

This is how we write with the earth: listen to our bodies, which are made of earth-stuff. Listen to our bellies, which will tell us when we hunger for more and when we've had enough. Listen to the rhythm of waves, which sing endlessly of the need for coming and going.

Photo by Susanne Kappler

And join me for EarthJoyWriting workshops today in Portland and Saturday and Sunday in Eugene and Ashland. Learn more on the Book Tour page.

If you're far away, you can click around this website to order the book, listen to audio meditations and watch mini-workshop videos.

And check out the virtual tour on Facebook and Twitter at #EarthJoyWriting