Jan
17
to Feb 21

Excavate & Express: Intergenerational Trauma & the Wisdom of Our Ancestors *SOLD OUT*

This event is full. Click on the link to add your name to the waitlist: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/excavate-express-intergenerational-trauma-the-wisdom-of-our-ancestors-tickets-672668187657?aff=oddtdtcreator

Excavate & Express: Intergenerational Trauma & the Wisdom of Our Ancestors is a six-week heart-filled online workshop that explores intergenerational trauma and healing through writing and conversation. In this offering, we will gather online in a small group, co-create a supportive space together, use mindfulness and somatic exercises to ground our bodies, and writing prompts to reveal the stories we hold. We will write, discuss, and share on topics including grief and love, family stories, writing into the unknown, and the gifts of our ancestors.

No writing experience is needed to join – this is a warm, friendly, and gentle class. Sharing your writing is always a choice and is not required to participate in this workshop.

Program Details:
Wednesdays: January 17, 24, 31 & February 7, 14 & 21 (6 consecutive weeks)
Evening workshop 7pm-8:30pm
90-minute sessions
Open to 8 participants
Cost per participant $193.03 (Includes processing fee) (subsidy available)
Zoom Video Conferencing
Presented by Jewish Family Services - Vancouver

Claire Sicherman is the granddaughter of Holocaust survivors, a member of the third generation. She is a published author, speaker, and teacher of writing. Her book Imprint: A Memoir of Trauma in the Third Generation speaks to the effects of intergenerational trauma and the possibility of healing.

Registration opens October 16th through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/excavate-express-intergenerational-trauma-the-wisdom-of-our-ancestors-tickets-672668187657?aff=oddtdtcreator

For questions about the workshop, please contact Claire Sicherman at sichermanc@gmail.com.
For information about the subsidy, please contact Josephine Enobong at jenobong@jfsvancouver.ca.

View Event →
Nov
1
to Nov 22

Dream into Page: Writing Ourselves Home *Sold Out* (Email for waitlist)

Welcome to Dream into Page: Writing Ourselves Home, a four-week heart-filled online workshop designed to support and nurture your writing practice, explore authenticity and why it’s sometimes so hard to be ourselves, and uncover our intuition.

In this month-long offering, we will gather online in a small group of six writers, create a supportive space together, write, discuss the joys and challenges of the creative process, and workshop writing using affirmative feedback. Incorporating mindfulness and somatic exercises to ground our bodies and prompts to generate new material, we will write into what it means to be authentic, how to open to intuition, and inquire into how it all relates to the body and the stories we hold.

During the four weeks, you will have the opportunity to workshop writing (up to 800 words), with your peers providing supportive feedback. You will receive a Google Document with resources you can share with each other along the way. During the month-long period, you will also receive one thirty minute 1-to-1 session with me.

Details: Wednesdays from 7pm - 9pm PST November 1, 8, 15 & 22
Online using Zoom

Cost: $225 CAD/$180 USD

To register, please email me at sichermanc@gmail.com 

Women writers with all levels of experience are welcome – this is a warm, friendly, and gentle class. Please have a piece of writing (up to 800 words) ready to share by the first class on November 1 as we will be taking turns workshopping over the four weeks. While we will focus on memoir/creative nonfiction, all genres are welcome. Sharing your writing is always a choice and is not required to participate in this workshop. Maximum 6 participants.

View Event →
Oct
3
to Oct 25

Dream into Page: Writing the Hard Stuff *Sold Out*

Welcome to Dream into Page: Writing the Hard Stuff, a four-week heart-filled online workshop to support and nurture your writing process.

In this month-long offering, we will gather online in a small group of six writers, create a supportive space together, write, discuss the joys and challenges of the creative process, and workshop writing with affirmative feedback. Using mindfulness and somatic techniques to ground our bodies and prompts to generate new material, we will write into the hard stuff, go to the places that scare us, explore the language of emotions, and how these all relate to the body and the stories we hold.

During the four weeks, you will have the opportunity to workshop writing (up to 800 words), with your peers providing supportive feedback. You will receive a Google Document with resources you can share with each other along the way. During the month-long period, you will also receive one thirty minute 1-to-1 session with me.

Details: Online using Zoom, from 7pm to 9pm PST Monday, October 3 and three consecutive Tuesdays October 11, 18 & 25

Cost: $199 CAD/$165 USD (includes PayPal fee)

To register, please email me at sichermanc@gmail.com 

Women writers with all levels of experience are welcome – this is a warm, friendly, and gentle class. Please have a piece of writing (up to 800 words) ready to share by the first class on October 3, as we will be taking turns workshopping over the four weeks. While we will focus on memoir/creative nonfiction, all genres are welcome. Sharing your writing is always a choice and is not required to participate in this workshop. Maximum 6 participants.

View Event →
Feb
1
to Feb 22

Dream into Page: Writing Grief & Love *Sold out*

Welcome to Dream into Page: Writing Grief & Love, a four-week heart-filled online workshop to support and nurture your writing process.

In this month-long offering, we will gather online in a small group of six writers, create a safe space together, listen to one another, write, discuss the joys and challenges of the creative process, and workshop writing with supportive feedback. Using somatic techniques to ground our bodies and prompts to generate new material, we will write into and talk about the often-silenced subject of grief as it relates to the body, to love and to the stories we hold.

During the four weeks, you will have the opportunity to workshop writing (up to 800 words), with your peers providing affirmative feedback. You will receive a Google Document with resources you can share with each other along the way. During the month-long period, you will also receive one thirty minute 1-on-1 session with me.

Details: Online using Zoom, Tuesdays from 7pm - 9pm PST February 1, 8, 15 & 22

Cost: $199 CAD/$167 USD (includes PayPal fee)

To register, please email me at sichermanc@gmail.com 

Writers who identify as women, and with all levels of experience are welcome – this is a warm, friendly, and gentle class. Please have a piece of writing (up to 800 words) ready to share by the first class on February 1, as we will workshop over the four weeks (you will not be expected to share this writing during the first class). While we will focus on memoir/creative nonfiction, all genres are welcome. Sharing your writing is always a choice and is not required to participate in this workshop. Maximum 6 participants.

View Event →
Oct
5
to Oct 26

Dream into Page: Writing Grief & Love *Sold out*

Welcome to Dream into Page: Writing Grief & Love, a four-week heart-filled online workshop to support and nurture your writing process.

In this month-long offering, we will gather online in a small group of six writers, create a safe space together, listen to one another, write, discuss the joys and challenges of the creative process, and workshop writing with supportive feedback. Using somatic techniques to ground our bodies and prompts to generate new material, we will write into and talk about the often-silenced subject of grief as it relates to the body, to love and to the stories we hold.

During the four weeks, you will have the opportunity to workshop writing (500-800 words), with your peers providing affirmative feedback. You will receive a Google Document with resources you can share with each other along the way. During the month-long period, you will also receive one thirty minute 1-on-1 session with me.

Details: Online using Zoom, Tuesdays from 7pm to 9pm October 5, 12, 19 & 26

Cost: $199 CAD/$165 USD (includes PayPal fee)

To be added to the waitlist, please email me at sichermanc@gmail.com 

Writers who identify as women, and with all levels of experience are welcome – this is a warm, friendly, and gentle class. Please have a piece of writing (500-800 words) ready to share by the first class on October 5, as we will workshop over the four weeks (you will not be expected to share this writing during the first class). While we will focus on memoir/creative nonfiction, all genres are welcome. Maximum 6 participants. Please contact me for information on sliding scale spots for BIPOC writers. You will need to download Zoom.

View Event →
Feb
2
to Feb 23

Dream into Page: Writing about Family, Ancestors & Ourselves *SOLD OUT*

This event is now full. To be added to the waitlist, please email: sichermanc@gmail.com

Would you like to write about family but don’t know where to begin? Or maybe you’re curious about your ancestors, and would like some guidance around writing into the unknown? Or perhaps you’d like some support in unearthing your voice?

Welcome to Dream into Page: Writing about Family, Ancestors & Ourselves, a four-week heart-filled online workshop to support and nurture your writing process.

In this month-long offering, we will gather online in a small group of six writers and create a safe space together, listen to one another, write, discuss the joys and challenges of the creative process and workshop writing with supportive feedback. Using mindfulness and prompts to generate new material, we will write into and discuss topics including intergenerational trauma, what we inherit, discovering our voice and writing into the unknown.

During the four weeks, you will receive a Google Document with resources we can share with each other along the way. You will have the opportunity to workshop writing (500-800 words), with your peers providing affirmative feedback. You will also receive one thirty minute 1-on-1 session with me during the month-long period.

Dream into Page will give you the boost you need to put pen to page and allow the words to flow. I would like to hold your hand, gently guide you to listen to your intuition and be your cheerleader. Picture me doing cartwheels and waving my pom pom’s high into the air for you!

Details: Online using Zoom, Tuesdays from 7pm to 9pm February 2, 9, 16 & 23

Cost: $175 CAD/$137 USD (includes PayPal fee)

To register, email me at sichermanc@gmail.com 

Writers who identify as women, and with all levels of experience are welcome. Please have a piece of writing (500-800 words) ready to share following the first class on February 2, as we will workshop over the four weeks (we will brainstorm the workshop questions together, along with deciding who feels comfortable going first). While we will focus on memoir/creative nonfiction, all genres are welcome. Maximum 6 participants. Please contact me directly as I do offer a limited number of sliding scale spots for BIPOC writers. You will need to download Zoom as we will be using this for our class. If you have a friend who would be interested, please share. Early registration is recommended as the last offering sold out.

View Event →
Oct
6
to Oct 27

Dreaming into Page - SOLD OUT

Is there a writing project you would like to start but you don’t know where to begin? Or maybe you’re feeling stuck in the middle of a manuscript? Or perhaps you need some support in finishing your draft?

Welcome to Dreaming into Page, a four-week online workshop to support and nurture your writing process. I know how hard it is to sustain the commitment and discipline on your own. Since writing can be an isolating experience, with encouragement from your peers, you will receive the boost you need to put pen to page and allow the words to flow. In other words, I would like to hold your hand, gently guide you to listen to your intuition and be your cheerleader. (Picture me doing cartwheels and waving my pom pom’s high into the air for you!)

In this month-long offering, we will gather online with other writers in a safe space, listen to one another, and discuss the challenges of the creative process. My intention is to tailor these four weeks based on your needs and interests. Using meditation and prompts to generate new material, we will write into and discuss topics including writer’s block, tuning into the body and senses, writing about the hard stuff (trauma, family and secrets), self-care and sustaining a writing practice.

During the four weeks, you will receive a Google Document which will provide a space to discuss and ask your questions, with resources we can all share with each other along the way. You will have the opportunity to share your work with the group (this is optional), with your peers providing affirmative feedback. You will also receive one thirty minute 1-on-1 session with me during the month-long period.

Details: Online using Zoom, Tuesdays from 7pm to 9pm October 6, 13, 20 & 27.

Cost: $175 CAD/$137 USD (includes PayPal fee)

To register, email me at sichermanc@gmail.com 

Writers who identify as women, with all levels of experience are welcome. It would be helpful if you had a project in mind you’d like to begin or one that you have already started. While we will focus on memoir/creative nonfiction, all genres are welcome. Maximum 6-8 participants. Please contact me directly as I do offer a limited number of sliding scale spots for BIPOC writers. You will need to download Zoom as we will be using this for our class.

View Event →
Apr
5
to Apr 26

Truth Be Told: Writing in Rhythm with Nature - FULL

Class is now full but we are taking a wait list. Please email ahavashira@gmail.com to be added to the list.

Rhythm of our language. Rhythm in our bodies. Rhythm of the earth. 

How do we learn to slow down and listen? What wisdom can we access when we bring our full attention to our bodies and the earth? How might we create a personal and collective response to climate change?

Now more than ever is a time to come together to connect, write and build community. This workshop invites an intimate exploration of our interconnection with nature. We will open into the wonder and beauty of the earth, as well as the grief and unknown of climate change and the current pandemic. Through mindful meditation and writing through the senses, we will allow our curious and receptive attention to guide us into authentic and courageous response. Join us for these powerful sessions of writing and expression. 

Details: Sundays April 5, 12, 19, 26 from 2pm to 4pm.

You will need to download zoom as we will be using this for our class.

Cost: $60 for 4 classes (If this is a challenge for you, please let us know.) 

Maximum 10 participants.

To register, please send an email by Wednesday, April 1 to: ahavashira@gmail.com

Claire and Ahava facilitate writing workshops and retreats on Salt Spring Island and in other communities in the Pacific Northwest. They are passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where diverse voices are shared, witnessed and valued.

Ahava Shira is the author of Weaving of My Being (1998), Love is Like This (2010) and co-author of Writing Alone Together: Journalling in a Circle of Women for Creativity, Compassion and Connection (Butterfly Press 2014). Ahava is currently writing a memoir. https://lovinginquiry.com/

Claire Sicherman is the author of "Imprint: A Memoir of Trauma in the Third Generation" (Caitlin Press 2018). Claire examines how the body holds memories of traumatic experiences, and the importance of breaking the silence of family stories. https://www.clairesicherman.com/

View Event →
Feb
9
10:00 AM10:00

Truth Be Told: Writing the Language of Pleasure

How do we stop ourselves from experiencing pleasure?
What stories are we holding about guilt and shame?
How do we create space for pleasure in our lives?

Writing pleasure is like learning a new language and we each have different dialects.

During this day-long writing retreat, we will write pleasure through the senses using playful movement, mindful awareness, music, art and nourishing food. Through embodied writing and sharing, we will explore what holds us back from pleasure and how we can fully receive it.

This is an invitation. Give yourself permission to sense, feel and move into pleasure. Reclaim your innate capacity for joy and delight.

Join facilitators Ahava Shira & Claire Sicherman for this delicious day of writing and creative expression.

Early Bird $99 (until December 15)
Regular price $139

A Nourishing Lunch, Decadent Treats & Tea will be provided.

Maximum 10 participants.

To register email: sichermanc@gmail.com

Claire Sicherman is the author of "Imprint: A Memoir of Trauma in the Third Generation" (Caitlin Press 2018). Claire examines how the body holds memories of traumatic experiences, and the importance of breaking the silence of family stories. www.clairesicherman.com

Ahava Shira is the author of Weaving of My Being (1998), Love is Like This (2010) and co-author of Writing Alone Together: Journalling in a Circle of Women for Creativity, Compassion and Connection (Butterfly Press 2014). Ahava is currently writing a memoir. www.lovinginquiry.com

Claire and Ahava facilitate writing workshops and retreats on Salt Spring Island and in other communities in the Pacific Northwest. They are passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where diverse voices are shared, witnessed and valued.

**
This will be a cell phone-free environment (except on breaks). To support participants with environmental sensitivities, we will ask that you leave your cell phones in the car or turn them off if bringing them into the workshop space.

View Event →
Nov
16
1:00 PM13:00

Write From Within: A Yin Yoga and Journaling Practice - Sidney

Please contact Sidney Hot Yoga to register: Phone: 250.655.9642 Email: hotyogasidney@gmail.com

Writing is one way of releasing emotion that we hold in our bodies and is a great companion practice to Yin Yoga. Yin Yoga is slow paced style where the postures are held for longer periods of time to create a moderate stress on the connective tissues of the body with the aim to improve circulation, joint health and flexibility. This slow approach is inherently meditative and encourages quiet self reflection, self compassion and relaxation. With Yin Yoga we lay the foundation of openness in our bodies to let held emotions arise and then we journal with writing prompts. These prompts are designed to guide and support, allow for connection, reflection and sharing of writing, if desired.
In this workshop there is an opportunity to share what you have written so we open the session with a brainstorm around what the participants feel we all have to be aware of in order to create a safe space. In doing so, we co-create a supportive, non judgmental environment that fosters vulnerability, courage, deep listening and, ultimately, community as we take turns reading and listening without offering feedback beyond eye contact and a hand on the heart if you are moved by what you hear.

This session is suitable for all as no experience with yoga or writing is necessary. Please bring a willingness to participate, your favorite pen, a journal, and a water bottle. Please dress in layers for your comfort as this session is held at regular room temperature.

If you have any questions about the session or are wondering whether this offering is suitable for you, please email thenesthotyoga@gmail.com.

View Event →
Oct
20
9:30 AM09:30

​Autumn: A day of Yoga, Ayurvedic food and Writing

Click here to Register

Join Yoga teacher Sarah Jane Smith, Ayurvedic Chef Kari Mathieson and writer Claire
Sicherman for a day of seasonally inspired yoga, food and writing at beautiful Golden Tree
Farm on Salt Spring Island. 
​
As the world around us changes over the course of the year so do we. You may notice
overarching themes connected to each season that inspire different ways of moving, eating
and being. Our  seasonally inspired one day retreats focus on balancing
the elements that are dominant in each season with appropriate yoga postures, breath
work and meditation, seasonally balanced foods and journaling inspiration.

Outline of the day
Arrival and welcome circle
2 hour seasonal practices session including all levels Asana (yoga postures), Pranayama (breath work), Meditation and Mantra
Balance the elements in your food -  Ayurvedic cooking demonstration
Lunch - Seasonally inspired Ayurvedic vegetarian lunch
Write From Within: a Yin Yoga and Journaling Practice
Closing circle

Details of the day

​Autumn Seasonal Practices session with Sarah Jane
We can allow our yoga practice to change over the course of the year as a way to connect with nature and the world around us and ultimately ourselves.
In the Autumn, we look to grounding and calming practices, in the winter we take deep rest but practice with the idea of moving stagnation and in Spring we catch the wave of inspiration that is present with more creative movement, in summer we may be more extroverted and playful while still staying in balance with our foundation. Practice include Asana (yoga postures), Pranayama (breath work), Abhyanga (self massage), Meditation and Mantra.
This session is presented in an all levels style with options to build on the foundational postures for those who are more experienced.

Sarah Jane teaches yoga at her home based studio – the Nest hot yoga. Since her initial 500 hour training with Modo yoga in 2010, she has continued to study and build her knowledge and skill as both a student and teacher of yoga completing over 1500 hours of training and teaching over 3300 classes. In Sarah Jane’s classes you can expect variety with purpose, alignment based instruction, opportunities to explore, individualized verbal instruction and modifications, invitations into self awareness and discovery, challenge, breath awareness, seasonally themed intentions and looooong savasanas. Go here to read a more detailed biography.

Lunch and Ayurvedic cooking workshop with Kari
Kari will prepare for us a nourishing and beautiful seasonally inspired lunch. She will also offer an Ayurvedic cooking demo, sharing with us some simple seasonal recipes we can bring into our kitchen and our daily lives to support a calm , stable, clear and balanced mind and body. According to Ayurveda, 'Sattva' is the essential energy of the mind, clear space of truth, contentment and stability.  Sattva can be preserved through the foods we choose to eat and the way we prepare them. You will receive recipes to take home, information on Sattvic practices and some inspiration for deeper self care and nourishment.

Kari Mathieson is a vegetarian chef, specializing in healing whole food and Ayurvedic inspired cooking for yoga and meditation retreats. She also offers creative cooking classes to inspire healthy wholesome eating and lifestyle to seekers on a path of healing and self discovery. Check out her website at www.karimathieson.com

Write From Within: a unique combination of yin yoga and journaing with Claire and Sarah Jane
Yin Yoga is slow paced style where the postures are held for longer periods of time to create a moderate stress on the connective tissues of the body with the aim to improve circulation, joint health and flexibility. We use bolsters and blocks for support to encourage a deep physical surrender. This slow approach is inherently meditative and encourages quiet self reflection, self compassion and relaxation. 
We lay the foundation of openness in our bodies to let held emotions arise with the yin postures and then we journal with writing prompts. These prompts are designed to guide and support the process of releasing emotion we hold in our bodies. Within the container of practice, we provide a safe space to explore sensations and allow for connection, reflection and sharing of writing, if desired.

Claire Sicherman is the author of Imprint: A Memoir of Trauma in the Third Generation. She facilitates a Journaling Circle on Salt Spring Island, which is part of a multi-generational writing project called Home Words. Claire is interested in exploring how we hold trauma and emotions in our bodies and self-regulation techniques. She has recently completed teacher training programs in Trauma Informed and Yin Yoga. www.clairesicherman.com/

Registration is limited to 15 participants and is an investment of $120.

Please bring a blanket, bolster or firm pillow, a pair of cotton socks, a water bottle, journal and pen.
We will be sitting on the floor throughout the day. There will be a few chairs available for those who want them. 

This one day retreat is open to all levels of yoga experience from beginners to intermediate practitioners. No previous writing experience is necessary.
If you have any questions about the retreat or are wondering whether this offering is suitable for you, please email us.

View Event →
Sep
29
1:00 PM13:00

Write From Within: A Yin Yoga and Journaling Practice - Nanaimo

Click here to register

Writing is one way of releasing emotion that we hold in our bodies and is a great companion practice to Yin Yoga. Yin Yoga is slow paced style where the postures are held for longer periods of time to create a moderate stress on the connective tissues of the body with the aim to improve circulation, joint health and flexibility. This slow approach is inherently meditative and encourages quiet self reflection, self compassion and relaxation. With Yin Yoga we lay the foundation of openness in our bodies to let held emotions arise and then we journal with writing prompts. These prompts are designed to guide and support, allow for connection, reflection and sharing of writing, if desired.
In this workshop there is an opportunity to share what you have written so we open the session with a brainstorm around what the participants feel we all have to be aware of in order to create a safe space. In doing so, we co-create a supportive, non judgmental environment that fosters vulnerability, courage, deep listening and, ultimately, community as we take turns reading and listening without offering feedback beyond eye contact and a hand on the heart if you are moved by what you hear.

This session is suitable for all as no experience with yoga or writing is necessary. Please bring a willingness to participate, your favorite pen, a journal, and a water bottle. Please dress in layers for your comfort as this session is held at regular room temperature.

If you have any questions about the session or are wondering whether this offering is suitable for you, please email thenesthotyoga@gmail.com.

View Event →
Sep
22
1:00 PM13:00

Truth Be Told: Writing Your Authentic Voice

What does it mean to be authentic in our writing?
How does fear deter us from telling the truth?
Why do we censor ourselves?

During this four-hour writing retreat, we will explore embodied writing, go to places that scare us, and examine what we are not letting ourselves say. Using prompts that encourage a connection with the body, gestures, movement and mindful awareness, we will listen for the stories we are holding within. Sharing of our work is invited and always a choice.

Join facilitators Ahava Shira & Claire Sicherman for this inspiring afternoon of writing into the fall equinox.

Early Bird $50 (until September 1st)
Regular price $65

Treats & Tea will be provided.

Maximum 10 participants.

To register email ahavashira@gmail.com

Ahava Shira is the author of Weaving of My Being (1998), Love is Like This (2010) and co-author of Writing Alone Together: Journalling in a Circle of Women for Creativity, Compassion and Connection (Butterfly Press 2014). Ahava is currently writing a memoir. www.lovinginquiry.com

Claire Sicherman is the author of "Imprint: A Memoir of Trauma in the Third Generation" (Caitlin Press 2018). Claire examines how the body holds memories of traumatic experiences, and the importance of breaking the silence of family stories. www.clairesicherman.com

Claire and Ahava facilitate writing workshops and retreats on Salt Spring Island and in other communities in the Pacific Northwest, most recently in Bellingham at the Chuckanut Writers Conference. They are passionate about creating safe, supportive spaces where diverse voices are shared, witnessed and valued.

View Event →
Jun
20
to Jun 22

Chuckanut Writers Conference in Bellingham, WA

Click here to register

Thursday, June 20, 2019 | 1 - 5 p.m. | $99

Claire Sicherman with special guest Ahava Shira

Exploring the Authentic Voice

What does it mean to be authentic in our writing? How does fear deter us from telling the truth? Why do we censor ourselves? In this class, we will explore embodied writing, go to places that scare us, and examine what we are not letting ourselves say. Using prompts that encourage a connection with the body, gestures, movement and mindful awareness, we will listen for the stories we are holding within. Sharing of our work is invited and always a choice. Special guest Ahava Shira co-authored the book Writing Alone Together and has been writing and teaching for 25 years. Claire and Ahava regularly co-teach writing classes. Please note: Participants should bring a journal and pen to class, as well as wear comfortable clothing.

Friday | June 21, 2019

4:00 – 7:30 PM | Reception, Faculty Reading, and Book Signing | Heiner Foyer and Heiner Theater

A highlight of the conference!
Be sure to join us for a chance to mingle and converse with authors and fellow attendees, and take advantage of the opportunity to get your books signed. And of course, you won’t want to miss the truly riveting and inspiring readings of our incredible faculty! Appetizers and a no-host bar with beer and wine will be provided from 4-5 p.m. Faculty readings will begin at 5 p.m.

Saturday | June 22, 2019

10:15 – 11:15 AM | Concurrent Author Panels

The Body As Muse
 Featuring: Claudia Castro Luna, Ely Shipley, Claire Sicherman, and Anastacia-Renee
Moderator: Courtney Putnam | Location: TBD

Washington State Poet Laureate Claudia Castro Luna writes, "One way to think of our bodies is as muse." Poets Ely Shipley and Anastacia-Renee and memoirist Claire Sicherman join Claudia to discuss embodied writing. This session will explore how the body offers a landscape of personal experience, how the breath interacts with the poetic line, and how movement can lead to breakthroughs.

1:30 – 2:30 PM | Breakout Session 4

Breaking the Silence: Writing Family Stories | Claire Sicherman | TBD

So much of writing our families' stories can be found in what we don’t know, in what is not said and not spoken. But what if we start uncovering what is true? In this session, we will use prompts, write together, and then read aloud, if desired. The prompts are designed to touch into those silences and facilitate connection with the body in order to stir stuff up and bring it out.

View Event →
May
26
1:00 PM13:00

Write From Within: A Yin Yoga and Journaling Practice - Valley Yoga in Duncan

Click here to register

Writing is one way of releasing emotion that we hold in our bodies and is a great companion practice to Yin Yoga. Yin Yoga is slow paced style where the postures are held for longer periods of time to create a moderate stress on the connective tissues of the body with the aim to improve circulation, joint health and flexibility. This slow approach is inherently meditative and encourages quiet self reflection, self compassion and relaxation. With Yin Yoga we lay the foundation of openness in our bodies to let held emotions arise and then we journal with writing prompts. These prompts are designed to guide and support, allow for connection, reflection and sharing of writing, if desired.
In this workshop there is an opportunity to share what you have written so we open the session with a brainstorm around what the participants feel we all have to be aware of in order to create a safe space. In doing so, we co-create a supportive, non judgmental environment that fosters vulnerability, courage, deep listening and, ultimately, community as we take turns reading and listening without offering feedback beyond eye contact and a hand on the heart if you are moved by what you hear. Please bring a willingness to participate, a yoga mat, your favorite pen, a journal, a firm pillow, blanket and a water bottle. If you have any questions about the session or are wondering whether this offering is suitable for you, please email thenesthotyoga@gmail.com.

View Event →
Jan
27
9:30 AM09:30

Winter: A day of Yoga, Ayurvedic Food and Writing

Click here to register

Join Yoga teacher Sarah Jane Smith, Ayurvedic Chef Kari Mathieson and writer Claire Sicherman for a day of seasonally inspired yoga, food and writing at beautiful Golden Tree Farm on Salt Spring Island. 
​
As the world around us changes over the course of the year so do we. You may notice overarching themes connected to each season that inspire different ways of moving, eating and being. Our seasonally inspired one day retreats focus on balancing the themes that are dominant in the each season with appropriate yoga postures, breath work and meditation, seasonally balanced foods and journaling inspiration.

Registration is limited to 15 participants and is an investment of $120.
This one day retreat is open to all levels of yoga experience from beginners to intermediate practitioners. No previous writing experience is necessary.
If you have any questions about the retreat or are wondering whether this offering is suitable for you, please email us.

View Event →
Oct
21
9:00 AM09:00

Autumn: Connect, Reflect & Release

A day of Yoga, Ayurvedic Food and Writing on Salt Spring Island, BC

Join Yoga teacher Sarah Jane Smith, Ayurvedic Chef Kari Mathieson and writer Claire Sicherman for a day of seasonally inspired yoga, food and writing at beautiful Golden Tree Farm on Salt Spring Island.

As the world around us changes over the course of the year so do we. You may notice
overarching themes connected to each season that inspire different ways of moving, eating
and being. In this first of four, seasonally inspired one day retreats we focus on balancing
the themes that are dominant in the Autumn season with appropriate yoga postures, breath
work and meditation, seasonally balanced foods and journaling inspiration.

Please click on link for more information and to register: https://www.thenesthotyoga.com/seasonal-retreats.html

View Event →
Sep
30
2:30 PM14:30

Word Vancouver

  • Alma VanDusen Room, Vancouver Public Library (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

2:30 pm Stories of Murder and Beyond

Lorimer Shenher – That Lonely Section of Hell: The Botched Investigation of a Serial Killer Who Almost Got Away (Greystone Books), Carys Cragg – Dead Reckoning: How I Came to Meet the
Man Who Murdered My Father (Arsenal Pulp Press), Claire Sicherman – Imprint: A Memoir of Trauma in the Third Generation (Caitlin Press)

Word Vancouver 2018 Festival

View Event →