Show notes
One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned in my years of writing is that mindfulness isn’t just about calming your mind—it’s one of the most powerful tools you can use to unlock creativity, find focus and actually finish your projects.It’s why I weave mindfulness practices into everything I teach, from my masterclasses to my membership for writers. So when I heard about the Mindful Writers Retreat and all the good coming out of it, I had to get today’s guests on the show.Kim Gray is a fellow author, one of my OG writer pals and a fellow traveler on the mindfulness journey. Kathie Shoop is also an author and the creator and host of the Mindful Writers Retreat.They’re here to talk about how mindfulness shows up in their retreats, how these sessions drove the creation of six anthologies where writers get to share their work, and why combining meditation, nature and community can change not just your writing, but the way you approach your creative life.We cover:• How the very first Mindful Writers Retreat began• Why meditation and walking can unlock creativity• The surprising rituals that change first-time attendees• The anthologies created by retreat participants—and the charities they support• Their newest collection, Retreat, which benefits The House of Ruth in BaltimoreIf you’ve ever wondered what benefits mindfulness and meditation have on your creativity, this is the episode for you.After you listen, try this today:A Mini Mindfulness Toolkit for WritersIf you want to bring a little retreat energy into your own writing space, here are three practices you can try in just a few minutes:1. Silent Walk – Step away from your desk and walk slowly in silence for five minutes. Let your mind wander toward your story instead of your to-do list.2. Candle Focus – Light a candle, soften your gaze on the flame, and breathe deeply for a few minutes before writing. Let the ritual mark your shift into creative space.3. Micro-Meditation – Close your eyes, place a hand on your chest, and take three slow breaths. With each exhale, release distraction. With each inhale, invite your characters and story back in.✨ Links & Resources• Contact Kathie ([email protected]) or Kim ([email protected]) for info about Mindful Writers Retreat• Buy Retreat here: https://browseaboutbooks.com/; https://www.theivybookshop.com/• Learn more about House of Ruth• Read The Detective’s DaughterChapters4:31 The Birth of Mindful Writers Meetup08:50 The Retreat Experience and Its Evolution14:35 Planning vs. Pantsing: Finding Your Writing Style20:34 The Retreat Experience23:00 The Power of Community in Writing27:22 The Anthology Journey: From Retreat to Publication34:30 Charitable Causes and Community Impact49:40 Future of Mindful Writers and Upcoming Retreats