Writing and Yoga Workshop

Join us for a unique exploration of the intersection between the physical and creative realms. This immersive experience combines the fluidity of yoga with the expressive power of writing to unlock new dimensions of your creative process.

In this workshop, we will guide you through three distinct parts, each designed to cultivate a deeper connection between body, mind, and imagination. 

**Qigong:**

Begin your journey with Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice that harmonizes breath, movement, and energy flow. Through gentle exercises and mindful breathing, you will ground yourself in the present moment, awakening your senses and priming your creative spirit.

**Vinyasa Yoga:**

Transition into a dynamic Vinyasa yoga sequence, where fluid movements synchronized with breath will invigorate your body and liberate your mind. As you flow through poses designed to ignite creativity and release tension, you'll receive writing prompts to inspire introspection and exploration of your inner landscape.

**Yin Yoga:**

Conclude your journey with Yin yoga, a soothing practice of long-held poses that target the deep connective tissues. In this restorative space, you'll delve into the quiet depths of your being, accessing insights and revelations that serve as fertile ground for your writing. Guided visualization and reflective prompts will guide you on a journey of self-discovery and creative expression.

Throughout the workshop, we'll use mementos and writing prompts to spark inspiration and unlock hidden facets of your writing process. Whether you're an experienced yogi or a novice writer, this workshop offers a transformative experience that will deepen your connection to both your body and your creativity. Join us as we embark on this journey of movement, mindfulness, and literary discovery.

Dress in comfy clothes that you are able to move freely in. We kindly ask that you bring mementos to draw inspiration from. 

Light refreshments, journals, and pens will be provided for this workshop. All yoga and writing levels welcome.

About the Facilitators

Nancy Caronia, PhD is an associate professor with West Virginia University's Department of English where she teaches courses in writing, literature, and film. Dr. Caronia has co-edited Personal Effects: Memoir, Culture, and Teaching in the Work of Louise DeSalvo (Fordham University Press). A twice nominated Pushcart Prize author, her fiction and creative non-fiction have appeared in numerous journals and volumes including Don't Tell Mama!; The Penguin Book of Italian American Writing and The Milk of Almonds: Italian American Women Writers on Food and Culture. She has been practicing and teaching Tai Chi Ch'uan for over 30 years; she has taken classes and workshops with Maggie Newman, Ben Lo, Lenzie Williams, and Wolfe Lowenthal. Caronia is also an Advanced Level Two certified Reiki practitioner attuned by John Harvey Grey in the Usui tradition. Nancy has taught memoir, fiction, and playwriting workshops to teens, adults, and seniors in New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island. She is mom to a feisty 13-year-old, 11-pound chihuahua named Sammie.

Deena Jackson, Certified Yoga Instructor

Deena has been practicing yoga for 14 years, recently earning her teacher certification at Moksha Yoga Amazonica yoga school in Moyobamba, Peru. She is versed in multiple styles of yoga with a heavy fous on yin and restorative styles.