Mindful Writing for Healing


By Marion Anderson T


here is a growing body of evidence that mindfulness benefits us in many ways. The assertions from these studies suggest that mindfulness boosts the immune system, increases posi-


tive emotions and helps us handle stress more effectively (Kashdan & Biswas-Diener, 2014). Today, most people have an idea of what it means to practice meditation and be mindful. However, these ideas are often associated with images of Buddha, gurus, yogis or monks, sitting calmly in a state of other-worldliness. While it is true that Buddha, gurus, yogis and monks from all over the world have practiced the Art of Being Present for thousands of years, this association leaves many people feeling intimidated by, or unin- terested in, pursuing the exploration of the Practice itself. Often- times, I hear that people are “unable to meditate” or their “minds won’t shut off”. What if I told you that the fundamental concept of meditation and mindfulness practice consists of nothing more than being attentive to your present experience? What if I told you that you didn’t have to wear a saffron robe and sit on a cushion to practice meditation, or that a very deep mindfulness practice could evolve through something as simple as writing? Would you be willing to give it a try?


The first time I ever shared a piece of my soul with another person through the medium of pen and paper, I watched as tears rolled down their cheeks. In that moment, I realized the universal- ity of human experiences and the ability we all possess to deeply connect with ourselves and one another through the art of writing. I experienced something therapeutic through this process of vulner- ability and I began to share more and more of myself with those around me. The responses I received from the readers of my mate- rial motivated me to continuously muster up the courage it takes to sit with my own (sometimes crazy) mind, and allow the flow of creativity to dive deeper into my being. This creative energy would sometimes take me through some dark and difficult truths about


28 ELM™ Maine - March/April 2018


myself and my life. Through this process of allowing though, I would be filled with light and love, and always…someone, anyone, everyone, could relate to these experiences.


Eventually, I realized that writing was a form of meditation for me; a place of intentional presence which always provided deep, transformative healing. After this realization, I became curious about a disciplined meditation practice that didn’t involve a me- dium. I wondered if I could increase my focus, concentration and ability to be present through sitting and breathing. And if I could, how would this impact my writing process? I began a very demand- ing practice of Zen Buddhism and found not only my writing, but my entire life enriched. I soon joined Dharma Punx, an organiza- tion that practices Theravada (a branch of Buddhism that uses Bud- dha’s teachings preserved in the Pali Canon) and gained experience in giving Dharma talks, practices in Metta, and walking others through guided meditations. A miraculous healing was taking place within me and I absolutely HAD to share it. ALL of it!


I began to create writing and meditation workshops and of- fered them, in service, to a population of incarcerated women. I started collaborating with a non-profit organization called Guitar Doors and volunteered to write lyrics and music with the juvenile population at Long-Creek facility. I wrote articles for DOCtalk and The Portland Press Herald about my experiences within the work- shops. However, words could never capture the miracles in healing that I have witnessed through the simplicity of writing, sharing, and connecting (with ourselves and others). My intention is to continue providing a safe place for people to come to know themselves through the art of writing and meditation. My hope is that through this exploration of self, one will feel empowered to truly connect with others in a deep and meaningful way.”


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36