The Embodied Writer: Using Somatic Practice to Challenge Traditional Workshop Structures

Morash, Karen (2026) The Embodied Writer: Using Somatic Practice to Challenge Traditional Workshop Structures. Theatre Research International, 51 (2). pp. 1-6.

Text The Embodied Writer Karen Morash.pdf - Accepted Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (204kB)

Abstract

This paper explores the pedagogic implementation of somatic techniques within creative workshop environments for writers. The usage of somatic and mindful exercises, which are sometimes utilised within performer training, offer significant benefits in emotional and physical regulation and open up creative pathways. By examining two workshops for writers designed by the author and research partners, one for neurodivergent participants and another for more general groups, the article analyses how the combination of somatic exercises and writing tasks equips participants with tools to encourage productive working environments. Simultanesouly, this process equips them to think through their bodies, thereby producing work which communicates their unique physical and cognitive experiences. This consideration is underscored by bell hooks’s idea of education as a transgressive act, supporting students/participants to be actively engaged in their own development, as opposed to passive learners. Keywords: creative writing; mindful; somatic; workshops; embodied.

Item Type:	Article
Divisions:	Politics and Socially-engaged practice
Depositing User:	Dr Karen Morash
Date Deposited:	07 Oct 2026 10:24
Last Modified:	07 Oct 2026 10:24
URI:	https://bruford.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/88

Actions (login required)

Edit Item