Generative Writing: An Alchemical Process for Self-Healing with Meredith Heller

MP3 Download

Meredith Heller writes: “Writing has saved my life and woven me back into belonging more times than I can tell you.” She encourages and inspires us to experience the power of writing as a lifeline and companion to personal discovery. She says it’s an alchemical process that takes the raw material of our lives and transforms it into something vital and luminous. She shares her journey of leaving home when she was thirteen years old and living on the streets to later guide others to use generative writing for personal healing. Here we explore the power of writing to reveal your inner wisdom for healing, creative magic, and personal transformation. (hosted by Justine Willis Toms)

Bio 

Meredith Heller is a poet, singer-songwriter, avid nature lover, and educator with degrees in writing and education. She leads writing workshops online and in person. She also teaches in schools, juvenile detention centers, women’s prisons, and wellness retreats.

Meredith Heller is the author of:

• Write a Poem, Save Your Life: A Guide for Teens, Teachers, and Writers of All Ages (New World Publishers 2021)
• Writing by Heart: A Poetry Path to Healing and Self-Discovery (New World Library 2024)

To learn more about the work of Meredith Heller go to www.meredithheller.com

Topics explored in this dialogue include:

• Heller’s teenage years beginning with leaving home at the age of 13
• How poetry and songwriting saved her life
• How generative writing allows for spontaneity and creativity and is an alchemical process of transformation
• Why embracing curiosity and radical honesty is a doorway to healing and self-discovery
• How reading our writing with trusted others can deepen our experience of healing
• Your body carries wisdom and has lessons to teach
• How to use the power of the elements: air, water, earth, and fire to tap into the imaginal world
• What are some writing prompts about what is the practice of prayer for you and when did you learn to pray
• How to connect with nature through the phases of the moon
• Why we should embrace the “fertile darkness” where all things new are born

Host: Justine Willis Toms    Interview Date: 6/14/2024   Program Number: 3820

Music Playlist

Album: Roots
Artist: Laurie Z

Opening Essay: Track 01 Stranger in a Familiar Land
Music Break 1: Track 12 The River
Music Break 2: Track 07 Dream Come True
Music Break 3: Track 02 Michael's Song