On Making Space for a Writing Ritual

Hello,

Why is making space for a writing ritual important to you? Last week was the first week of free classes for my Develop a Writing Ritual series. 20 folks registered. We started by answering the above question. Here’s a summary of what came up:

• Accountability — If intentional space for creativity isn’t made, other projects, chores, tasks always get prioritized. I need a writing ritual to hold me accountable to what actually matters to me.
  

•  A balm for self-judgement — Twyla Tharp reflects in her book ‘The Creative Habit’ that ritual “clears the fog of self-doubt.” Several participants built on this, saying: I want a writing ritual where both the good and the bad are allowed so that I can write freely; a space where my perfectionism can be challenged.
  

• Belonging — For others, belief is what’s needed most. I want to practice believing that my creative ideas/spirit matter. Within this space set aside for my creativity, I want to lean into the belief that I belong, and that I have the ability to create work that is meaningful and exciting.
  

• If not now, when? — Several participants have a novel they’ve been dreaming about writing for years. They’re using this series as an opportunity to start. First pages have been written, plots are starting to get mapped out. It’s very exciting to watch.

We stayed present to these desires during our 40 minute writing practice, and then afterwards reflected on the experience in small breakout rooms.

There are still 2 more weeks of free classes! Want to join us? Register here.
(there’s a session today at 6:30pm PST).

*The above are not direct quotes. I’ve put them in italics for style reasons.

Each week in the Develop a Writing Ritual series, we start with a question about creativity (like the one above), a short breath practice, and then a writing prompt that’s inspired by a lit magazine to get your pen moving. Afterwards, we turn off our cameras and write for 40 minutes. During this time, you could journal, write a poem, begin a novel, build on the writing prompt… it’s really up to you.

Last week’s prompt was inspired by the The Victorian Writer’s winter theme: blues. They publish short fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and articles on the craft and business of writing. Submissions are due August 24th.

Here’s the prompt to try on your own:

1. What shade of blue represents your relationship to writing? Why? Take a look at this image for inspiration. If the perfect shade of blue is not there… make one up.
   

2. What kinds of expression does this shade of blue allow within you? And what kinds of expression does it stop?

Take 3-5 minutes to freewrite in response to each question. Then, set a timer for 15-40 minutes and play with turning your reflections into a poem, story, or article. Follow your curiousity.

Develop a Writing Ritual: Summer Term is FREE!

Want to make space for creative expression this summer? Join us. To celebrate the relaunch of this series, I’m offering all Summer classes for FREE (from Aug 14th - 31st).

3 classes a week to choose from (attend one or them all):

• Mondays from 6:30-7:45pm PST (evenings)

• Tuesdays from 7:30-8:45am PST (mornings)

• Wednesdays from 1:30-2:45pm PST (afternoons)

FALL TERM Writing Classes (ONLINE):

The Fall term at the studio starts September 11th!
See what’s coming up by clicking on the button below.

Healing Through Poetry: 
Documentary Series Screening Night

I’m grateful to be featured in this documentary on poetry and mental health, funded by Storyhive’s Voices 2.0 Program! Directed by Garima Soni.

My episode is on anxiety.

Join us for a special screening of the first 3 episodes on Tuesday, Sept 5th from 5:30-8:30pm at The Cinematheque in Vancouver, BC

I’ll be facilitating the panel discussion that will be follow the screening.

Questions about any of the above content? Email [email protected]

with warmth,
Christine Bissonnette

P.S — Know someone who would enjoy receiving this email? One of the ways you can support me as a teacher is by sharing these workshops with someone you think might enjoy them. Your support is greatly appreciated.