Sundress Academy for the Arts Presents: “our bodies, our words: a somatic writing workshop”

The Sundress Academy for the Arts is excited to present “our bodies, our words: a somatic writing workshop,” a workshop led by Ashley Bunn on February 8, 2023, from 6-7:30 PM. This event will be held over Zoom. Participants can access the event at tiny.utk.edu/sundress (password: safta).

The goal of this workshop is to create a safe and inclusive space for participants to explore the connection between their physical and subtle bodies and writing. We will move through a variety of somatic experiences and rituals including guided mindfulness (based on Yoga Nidra), breathing techniques, physical postures (based on restorative yoga), and sound healing techniques.

In connection with the somatic experiences, we will have space for generative writing and reflection. The writing aspect will be open and can be applied to any style of writing—although it most easily lends itself to poetry and creative nonfiction. There is no prior experience needed, and this will be accessible for every person and body. The activities will be led with a safe and trauma-informed process.

While there is no fee to participate in this workshop, those who are able and appreciative may make donations directly to Ashley Bunn via Venmo @howellandheal 

Ashley Howell Bunn (she/they)  completed her MFA in poetry through Regis University and holds a MA in Literature from Northwestern University. Their work has previously appeared in The Colorado Sun, South Broadway Ghost Society, Global Poemic, Twenty Bellows, patchwork litmag, Mulberry Literary and others. She is an experienced yoga guide and writes a monthly Yoga and Tarot column for Writual.  Their chapbook, in coming light, was published in 2022 by Middle Creek Publishing. She lives in Denver, CO with her child. You can find out more about them at howellandheal.com or on Instagram @howellandheal. 

This workshop is brought to you in part by a grant provided by the Tennessee Arts Commission. Find out about the important work they do here.

The Sundress Academy for the Arts is a writers residency and arts collective that hosts workshops, retreats, and residencies for writers in all genres including poetry, fiction, nonfiction, journalism, academic writing, playwriting, and more.