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Where Can I Go For a Writing Retreat?

I have just come back from a writer's conference and now I long for a writer's retreat. You may think that would be the same thing, but it isn't.

A writer's conference can be in a "retreat like" setting, however it can be so packed with workshops and classes that you do very little writing. Plus, you are never really alone at a writer's conference. If you are lucky enough to find a quiet spot, chances are some friendly soul will spot you and want to chat. Which is why conferences are so great. It's all about connecting with other writers.

A writing retreat on the other hand, has ample alone time for you to write and think. There are various types of retreats out there today. You can find some that are guided and include other writers. But my personal preference is a cottage with a nice view and me, myself and I. You might prefer a cabin in the woods or a room at a hotel for a week. The point is, that it is time for you to let your creative juices flow, relax and, if it helps, pray. I find my best writing moments are spent with deep prayer and alone time with my Creator first.

But what do you do if you can't afford a week's stay at a hotel, a cabin in the mountains, or a cottage by a lake? You improvise. Do you have a balcony or a backyard? I have a backyard with a nice little pond and early in the mornings I like to sit out there and listen to the water flowing. It brings me a sense of peace as I start my day. Parks are also great for retreats. I am very lucky to have The Thames river running through my town and the prettiest parks are available at my disposal. I take my pen and paper and watch the world walking by when I'm looking for character descriptions. I listen to the sounds around me and then I just go with the flow and I start writing.

What about in the winter when you just can't get out of the house? Try this - light a scented candle, play some soft music (I usually turn on the nature music channel on my T.V., before long I have the noises of crashing waves, birds singing and trees rustling, accompanied by soft music). It's great! Especially in the winter.

Of course writing retreats aren't always about writing. They are about relaxing too. A bathtub full of bubbles and an hour alone is great for taking the tension away - especially with little ones underfoot. Of course you don't want to become so relaxed you don't do any writing at all! That would defeat the purpose of a "writing" retreat.

The point is this - a writing retreat is a time for you to renew your creative spirit, to connect with your inner voice, to read, pray, rest and then let your creative side soar to start a new project or finish one.

From The Writer's Keep - A Blog for Creative Minds!

Tags: Conferences, Retreats, Writer's, Writing

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