As a writer and mental health advocate, I support writers as well as those struggling with mental health–guiding you in writing, wellness, healing (and for some, even finding God or another spiritual form/being in the wilderness). Whether you are a writer, or you simply enjoy seeking wellness through writing, I care deeply about helping you seek your dream for both. If you are a writer who is here for inspiration and guidance, or a walking or wilderness enjoyer, you will find here that as well. Thank you for being here.
Do you love writing, walking and nature or wilderness? Then this course is for you.
Over 8 weeks, we will have an introduction to wilderness writing, explore reading excerpts from nature & wilderness writers, discuss writing for mental wellness, practice daily walks & writing in nature (with attention, curiosity, and wonder), mindful observation, field notes, explore interior and exterior landscapes of wilderness, learn to use images, symbols, and metaphors of nature & wilderness in our writing, and especially, navigate the writing and wilderness journey together, and so much more!
There are so many benefits, including stress reduction and mood improvement during a difficult and isolating COVID time, fully engaging your body, mind, & spirit, being outdoors and in nature, mindfulness, fresh air and physical exercise; relaxation and better sleep; writing practice and self-expression; writing guidance, and so many more benefits.
Yes! Whether you are in a writing course for the first time, have done this before, or have your writing published, you are absolutely welcome in this course. Writing & Wilderness is for everyone, because the experience is transforming, unique, and unlike any normal, routine, everyday writing practice. If something is stirring in you and prompting you to sign up, then please take the leap! We have a space for you.
Asking brave questions about our writing topics, exploring who we are as reflected in the natural world, seeing ourselves and wilderness through new eyes, finding language to say what we otherwise cannot say. The act of writing transforms us and brings community together — if you are ready to write, join us. In nature, new things are always seeding, growing, and maturing into beauty.
Get some inspiration here — Annie Dillard on Nature & Writing
“The whole show has been on fire from the word go. I come down to the water to cool my eyes. But everywhere I look I see fire; that which isn’t flint is tinder, and the whole world sparks and flames.” — Annie Dillard
About Me
I’m so glad you’re here. I’m a writer, poet, and creative, as well as dreamer, runner, and Librarian. I am an advocate for language, voice, and creative storytelling, and anyone facing mental illness, trauma, homelessness, and more. I have my MA (CW and Englist Lit) and my BA Honours in Psychology. I have been published in several Canadian literary magazines and I am working on completed two poetry manuscripts. Click here to find out more.