Question 1

Is this an ongoing group?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Each workshop works as a stand-alone event but there is a series of them, each taking place on the first Thursday of the month between 6.30pm-8pm.

Question 2

Does this group also run online?

Accepted Answer

Not at the moment but if you’d like to register your interest in an online version of the group, this may be something that is available in the future.

Question 3

Why do we need to tap into our inner wisdom?

Accepted Answer

Wisdom is key for happiness, fulfilment, meaning, personal growth, good relationships and life decisions. We can draw from the wisdom of others but when we do that, ultimately what we’re doing is finding a resonance with our own inner knowing, and that is how we recognise a truth and a way forward.

Question 4

How do you become wise through writing?

Accepted Answer

As Flannery O’Connor once said: “I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I say.” Therapeutic creative writing prompts enable us to access our truths via the “back door”, in other words unconsciously, bypassing some of the filters and cognitive obstacles that can get in our way!

Question 5

Do I need to have some previous experience in creative writing, therapy or philosophy?

Accepted Answer

No at all. Everyone has inner wisdom and the word “philosophy” translates as “love of wisdom”, so that is all that is required. Therapeutic creative writing is more about content and process than product. We are looking at what insights your writing reveals rather than your writing ability.

Question 6

Is this a therapy group?

Accepted Answer

No. The hope is that participants will gain therapeutic benefit from the workshops but this is not a therapy group and there is never a requirement to share your writing or how you are feeling if that’s not right for you.

Question 7

What sort of themes will be explored in the workshops?

Accepted Answer

Wisdom is key to navigating all areas of life/the human experience, so the themes are endless really, but to name a few: love, meaning, community, identity, hope, spirituality, freedom, impermanence and loss.

Question 8

Where can I find out more about the facilitator?

Accepted Answer

Emma Garrard is a philosophy graduate, a Biblio/Poetry therapist and a psychotherapist. She trained with the International Academy for Poetry Therapy and now offers a range of therapeutic creative writing groups to promote well-being. You can find out more about Emma here: www.wordsforwellness.co.uk

Question 9

Where is the workshop taking place?

Accepted Answer

In Workshop 14, above Costa Coffee in Orchard Square. Take the external stairs from the centre of Orchard Square (between the entrances to Waterstones and Costa Coffee) and turn right at the top. Enter second door (double doors) on left and then it's the first door on the left.

Write Yourself Wise