Writing Poetry Can Be Therapeutic

It is fun to write poetry and it can also be therapeutic. When I read through poetry I have written over the years it shows how I have changed but also shows how in some things I have gone full circle. Some of my poetry is a bit like a diary and it shows how I was feeling at a particular time. I do wish I had put dates on more of my poems.

Personally, I find I am more honest in a poem than if I write in a journal. Perhaps this is because I can express my feelings but I don’t have to use the word ‘I’ if I choose not to. Whatever the reason, I find writing poetry is a good way to release my deepest emotions.

It is recognised writing poetry can be therapeutic and improve mental health. However, it is only effective when you feel free to write just what you want. Choose whatever form enables you to focus on your deepest and most private feelings. Although the poetry can rhyme it doesn’t have to. It can be a long poem or just a few words. Some of the most effective poetry, such as haiku and the less prescriptive seventeener consist of only a few words.

Expressing yourself through poetry as a self help form of therapy is a way to address negative feelings to allow healing and personal growth. The process can lead to greater self awareness, new insights and result in a release of emotions. You may even find yourself crying when you read what you have written. This is okay because crying is a good way to release pent up emotion.

A study of two hundred people participating in poetry writing as therapy found 56% experienced a release of negative emotion and a decrease in anxiety. Poetry therapy can help cope with the stress of losing a loved one. Some people find writing as therapy is more effective than counselling. In counselling the emphasis may be on looking at the difficulties in your life but poetry therapy can help get a fresh perspective on your feelings. Writing poetry may result in the creation of something poignant or beautiful. The act of doing something creative can build self esteem.

When using poetry writing as therapy you may want to keep a special notebook for the purpose and have a designated place for writing. You may like to set the scene by burning a scented candle or using an oil burner. A vase of flowers may be nice. Some quiet music without vocals may help the creative process but it is a personal choice. Making an effort to have a special environment when you write your poetry can make you feel nurtured.

The poetry you write can be kept private. If you keep your writing to yourself there is no need to fear criticism of the poem’s content or the technique. It is particularly important to let your thoughts flow and record them without editing. You can edit later if you wish.

It is a personal decision whether you keep what you write and reflect on it later or if you delete or throw it away. Ripping your poem up or burning it could even be part of the therapeutic process. Don’t feel you have to keep what you have written. Sometimes the process is more important than the finished product.



#_creative
#_emotions
#_feelings
#_mental_health
#_poetry
#_therapeutic
#_therapy
#_writing

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