The Embodied Writer

 

Irene Latham

What does it mean to be an embodied writer?

As a dreamer/seeker/practicer of mindfulness, I've come to believe that embodiment has to do with: 

1) being present 

2) practicing acceptance.

Being present in our bodies, aware of all the sensory information available to us in any given moment (instead of being caught in “stinking thinking”).

Practicing acceptance of who we are, and believing that not only that we are enough, but also LOVING who we are....and having this overwhelming sense of being glad to be alive.

John O'Donohue, in his lovely book Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom has this to say:

“The body is your only home in the universe. It is your house of belonging here in the world. It is a very sacred temple. To spend time in silence before the mystery of your body brings you toward wisdom and holiness.”

He encourages us to cultivate a deep sense of gratitude and connection with/for our bodies – and not just some parts of our bodies; ALL parts.

So when we're writing, we need to be aware of our bodies and of the sensations coming and going. 

We can deeper our characters by giving them this same awareness. When they succumb to fear, face the challenge, sink into despair,...what is happening in their bodies? 

Including these kind of details is what will provide for readers a visceral reading experience. As if our reader is THERE in the moment. As if our reader IS the hero. 

It's embodied writing we all crave and love to read. That's what gives our words and characters energy. That's what makes our stories powerful.

Don't know where to begin?

Start with breath. 

Breathing. 

You can't focus on your breath and think at the same time—so becoming aware of breath automatically and instantly making you present to your life. 

Other things you may pay attention to are the sound of your fingers hitting the keyboard, the feel of clothing against your skin, the taste and tenperature of tea/coffee/drink of choice as it fills your mouth. 

Overwhelmed? 

Come back to your body. 

Excited? 

Come back to your body? 

Stuck? 

Always come back to your body.

And know you are not alone! 

Here are some links for you:

https://www.sarahcannata.com/a-beginners-guide-to-embodied-writing/

https://introvertdear.com/news/the-career-benefits-of-embodied-writing/

https://writers.com/course/embodied-writing-somatic-practices-to-improve-your-work