Dates throughout the year in time with the seasonal nature festivals
Online and new LIVE options
Seasonal Writes LIVE A new event, this retreat takes place entirely outdoors in the magical landscape of Cornholme, Todmorden. Under the sky and on the earth we meet, connect with nature and write.
Seasonal Writes ONLINE Running since lockdown, this unique online event allows you to connect with the season, with others and with your sense of place from home. Time in circle online with plenty of time offline for your own process, your writing and to be in nature wherever you are.
Seasonal Writes is taking a break over the Summer. Watch this space for new dates Autumn 2024.
Seasonal Writes provides time to be with nature and to write creatively and reflectively.
In each session – live or online – we practice simple writing exercises alongside time in nature, connecting with the season in body, mind and spirit, and making simple ceremony. Through this we generate deeper connection, self-awareness and a sense of being part of a larger whole. Using words and nature, we uncover and express our creativity and truth.
Gentle writing exercises and prompts tap you into the moment, the elements and the season, sparking creativity and awakening your story. Any form of writing may emerge – prose, poetry or life writing, as you are drawn – all forms welcome. No specific writing experience is necessary.
Throughout the retreat – live or online – you will be within a supportive circle of others and guided by experienced writer, medicine-walker and facilitator Emma Decent.
Seasonal Writes aims to leave you feeling more connected to nature, creatively invigorated, and nurtured and supported, ready for the season to come.
Each retreat stands alone, honouring and connecting with the specific energy of the time and season. Come to one or more.
Seeking insight and inspiration from the land itself, we spend time connecting deeply with nature. Bringing back her whispers and wisdom, there is time to write. We complete the time sharing words in circle under the sky as the ancestors did.
The event takes place entirely outdoors with no shelter or toilet facilities. So wear suitable weather gear and shoes, bring an extra layer – and be prepared to pee in the bushes! In the event of bad weather alternative arrangements will be made.
The spot is a short walk uphill from nearest parking and transport links. Once arrived there is no need to walk far, there are comfortable sit spots on the earth, rocks and walls. Seasonal Writes Live is not suitable for those with serious mobility difficulties or wheelchair users unfortunately.
Full details and directions sent on booking.
‘I gained a deep sense of peace; some new knowledge of my surroundings; time to slow down and respond to things with curiosity and thoughtfulness; a feeling of groundedness.’
‘I loved taking time to notice everything around us using all the senses. I was amazed how this made me want to write things down. Although we shared our words there was no pressure, just the pleasure of listening to others, and this made me want to go away and do more of it – writing for the joy of it.’
Each session includes time offline for your own creative and reflective process. Part of this includes a period of time outside, experiencing directly the landscape and season wherever you are in that moment. Wherever you live, even an urban environment, there is medicine in simply being under the sky with your senses open. If you have mobility difficulties you can participate by simply finding an outdoor spot in which to sit and be. (Trees are great teachers at staying still yet connected to everything.)
You will need to be able to use Zoom on a computer or smartphone. You will need paper and pen or other writing materials at home. Any other resources you need you will be informed of in advance. All exercises are accessible whatever your location or circumstances.
‘Beautifully held and paced.’
‘I found it most inspiring and beneficial. It has given me much more confidence in writing.’
‘I’ve participated in many online workshops… Emma is an inspiring, innovative and supportive facilitator.’
About Emma Emma has been writing and performing poetry, prose and theatre for nearly 20 years and facilitating creative workshops for nearly 10. She is particularly interested in the power of writing and sharing words as ‘medicine’ for the individual and community. Working with nature has been an important part of her journey, integrating a relationship with nature, personal development and creative work. Emma has been practising wilderness therapy, Celtic shamanism and the Way of Council since 2008, training with Meredith Little of the School of Lost Borders (USA) and the Coventina School of Shamanic Counselling and Creative Arts Therapy (UK). She completed a Masters degree at Metanoia Institute (UK) in Creative Writing for Therapeutic Purposes in 2022. Emma lives on the Lancashire/Yorkshire border where she walks every day, and in 2020 created an outdoor performance of her poetry in the landscape Words in the Wild.
