Nature Poetry: 30 days of gentle writing practice
SUNDAY 1 JUNE - MONDAY 30 JUNE
“I feel as if there has been a new beginning. This gentle process of poetry learning and opening has unmasked so much through meditating on nature.”
Join me for 30 days of this gentle writing practice: sit in nature, see what you notice, write it down. Let’s choose what we give our attention to, and use this writing practice to bring calm into our days.
Each day we will take a few minutes to connect with the natural world around us. As we sit quiet and still, what do we notice? What do we see, hear, sense and feel? In finding words to express the experience, we connect our inner world to the world around us.
Each day I will share some thoughts on nature writing and poetry, and my own writing for that day. I invite you to share your writing too, as well as any reflections on the practice. Your sharing is very welcome, but optional. You get to choose!.
We are not aiming for finished poems necessarily, but rather the practice that makes poetry possible—presence, attention and putting our first words on the page.
What you need
10-15 minutes each day
Access to nature (outside, inside, through a window, next to a houseplant…)
Something to write on and with
Internet access to join the community
PRICE
Option One: NZ$69.00
Option Two: If you are unable to pay the full amount, please offer a koha (donation) of your choice.
details
Start date: Sunday 1 June
End date: Monday 30 June
You can do all parts of this course in your own time. There are no set times or timezone restrictions.
On registering, you’ll receive a link to our private online community. This is hosted on Mighty Networks. You use it on your PC, or get their free app for your phone.
“This daily practice has really filled me with joy, helped me to see with fresh eyes, and given me so much more confidence to share my writing. Your guidance and insights, along with the beautiful words from all the other budding poets here, have really inspired me and lifted me up during a chaotic time .”
What to expect
Some lovely things I hope you'll experience in our 30 days together:
A simple, sustainable writing practice.
Feeling more connected to Mother Earth.
Feelings of calm from being in nature each day.
Deepened presence and sharpened attention.
The joy of expressing yourself in writing.
Simple, effective poetry techniques to help you create poems you’ll love.
Being in community with other nature-loving writers.
Being held in a space that respects your sovereignty and wisdom.
No grading, no judging, no comparing—simply honouring the experience and expression of each person.
“It has reignited my writing and thinking, especially your wonderful way of giving permission. Permission to write or to not write, to not be careful, and helping me realize that everything and everywhere and everybody is NATURE.”
from previous Nature Poetry participants:
“So much inspiration, refuge and expansion during a busy, frazzled time of my life - and so much practice to carry forwards. Thank you so much Mary.” ~ Rose, UK
“Thank you, Mary, for creating this safe and gentle space for playing with our words 😊 This daily practice has really filled me with joy, helped me to see with fresh eyes, and given me so much more confidence to share my writing. Your guidance and insights, along with the beautiful words from all the other budding poets here, have really inspired me and lifted me up during a chaotic time - thank you for this lovely gift.” ~ Donna, USA
“I signed up on a whim having never written poetry before. It was very much a see what it’s like and so glad I did. It has been such a wonderful experience that I shall treasure for many days to come.” ~ Mel @thepollinationgardener, NZ
“For me poetry comes from a place of joy. Like stepping through an invisible door into joy. That's when my thoughts and words flow. It doesn't mean that what I write is joyful, but it's from the heart soul. It's genuine. This writing practice brings me joy, that's why I have been writing. It's all because of you Mary and all the energy you transmit, along with all the guidance and feedback, and so much more , thank you.” ~ Michele, Ireland
"I feel as if there has been a new beginning. This gentle process of poetry learning and opening has unmasked so much through meditating on nature. I am so grateful that now I am more open to what comes, willing to sit with and listen til understanding, peace and the words come.” ~ Lee-Anne, NZ
“Being part of Mary Walker’s Nature Poetry experience is teaching me the power of quiet observation. Not just slowing down to appreciate what's around you but standing still. You won't find me stopped for long as we bustle with preparations for spring crops but the daily practice really does promote poetic thoughts even if actually writing poetry doesn't happen.” - Julie, The Pickery Flower Farm , NZ
“It has reignited my writing and thinking, especially your wonderful way of GIVING PERMISSION. Permission to write or to not write, to not be careful, and helping me realize that everything and everywhere and everybody is NATURE. I'm so grateful to be one of your company.” ~ Max, USA
“"I’ve noticed through this, I have words come more freely... like as I see nature on my drive to work, my thoughts about it are more poetic, seeing the beauty and meaning.” ~ Melissa