Why I added yoga to the menu for The Writing Sisters Summit in Paradise.

 Yoga can help writers in a number of ways. First, it can help to clear the mind and allow space for ideas to erupt. Some writers have described their yoga practices as writing prompts, finding themselves running to the page after finishing a series of poses. “Physical yoga practice is a good place for Svadhyaya, or self study,” writes yoga practitioner and teacher Izzy Arcoleo, “and as we tune into what's going on in the body and mind, the way becomes clear for ideas to be untangled. It can bring about moments of clarity, and with clarity comes a little sprinkling of inspiration.” Both practices, as well, are often done in isolation.

Yoga also teaches us to be still when we're uncomfortable, and to breathe through the twinge of pain we experience in some poses. This can translate into “trusting the process” of writing, so we can more easily manage the inevitable ups and downs of composing longer works. “Often, in yoga, we hold long poses and breathe through discomfort,” writes literary novelist Heather Marshall. “We also learn where our edge is, physically and mentally, when it's healthy to stay at the edge and when it's time to back off and rest.”

Besides its undeniable physical benefits, yoga, like writing, is a reflective, explorative, and cathartic process that can allow us to tap into our creativity. As I explore in my first post for “How to Become a Better Writer Series,” intentions, being present, and accepting what works and what doesn't are an integral part of the writing process–well, of yoga too. Perhaps more importantly, both yoga and writing can teach us how to create meaning –out of repetition, rituals, and movement. As Susanne Harwood Rubin, a yoga instructor and an artists, writes:

“Yoga is a process of self-discovery, and it can be a powerful tool for writers. The practice of yoga can help writers to become more aware of their bodies, their minds, and their emotions. It can also help them to develop a deeper understanding of themselves and their work.

Yoga can also help writers to become more creative. The practice of yoga can help to clear the mind and to open up the body and mind to new possibilities. It can also help to generate new ideas and to tap into the creative process.

Yoga can also help writers to become more focused and disciplined. The practice of yoga can help to improve concentration and to develop a stronger work ethic. It can also help to develop a more positive attitude towards work and towards life.”

If you are a writer looking to improve your craft, I highly recommend incorporating yoga into your daily routine. There are poses you can do that will ease the strain on your body from sitting for long periods of time. It also reduces stress, especially through the breathing aspects of the practice. You may even find that you have greater clarity to write more efficiently. Here are some of the ways that yoga can help you with all that sitting and stress.

  1. Yoga can help to improve your posture. When you're sitting for long periods of time, it's easy to slouch or hunch over. This can lead to back pain, neck pain, and headaches. Yoga can help to strengthen the muscles in your back and neck, which can help to improve your posture.
  2. Yoga can help to reduce stress. When you're stressed, your body releases the hormone cortisol. Cortisol can lead to a number of health problems, including weight gain, heart disease, and anxiety. Yoga can help to reduce cortisol levels and to promote relaxation.
  3. Yoga can help to improve your focus. When you're trying to write, it's important to be able to focus on your work. Yoga can help to improve your focus by helping to clear your mind and to reduce distractions.
  4. Yoga can help to improve your creativity. When you're stuck in a rut, it can be hard to come up with new ideas. Yoga can help to stimulate your creativity by helping to clear your mind and to open up your body and mind to new possibilities.
  5. Yoga can help to improve your productivity. When you're able to focus and to be creative, you're more likely to be productive. Yoga can help you to be more productive by helping you to improve your focus, your creativity, and your overall well-being.
Register for this Years' Writing Sisters Summit to held in October Here.

Faculty include Nina Foxx (me), Bernice McFadden and Curtis Bunn. 

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