Tai Chi Poetry

As I was driving to work this morning, I heard a news story on National Public Radio about the benefits of using Tai Chi for those with dementia and minor memory loss. A study was taken where those using minor Tai Chi maneuvers while performing some small mental tasks improved their “cognitive score”.

This got me to thinking about what poetry can do to calm us. While I doubt anyone is going to be reading or writing poems while practicing some choice swanlike Tai Chi moves, I do know that poems do take me to a better place within my mind, leaving me feeling renewed. 

How is this possible, and by what poetic means could it do so?

A study incorporating poetry workshops in Cambridge and Las Vegas exhibited success in using poetry to deal with mental health issues, as well as loneliness. Sharing feelings developed a sense of community with those who participated. Some fear, anxiety, and stress was shown in the study to be lowered by the reading and writing of poems.

Other studies have also shown poetry to have alleviated pain intensity in cancer patients, improved memory, and helped children deal with emotions to cope with challenges.

Many use music for this purpose… playing classical music in nursing homes soothes troubled days. It has also been proven that music in the workplace increases productivity and morale. Poetry could be also be considered music without a voice or instruments, conveying feelings and emotions to cool one out on a bad day.

Poems about water, bird songs, sunsets, clouds, wooded areas, mountains, flowers, and various other aspects of nature seem to be effective in evoking peaceful imagery. Just as the sound of water is known to bring those anxiety levels down… words describing water can as well.

Fantasy poems can be relaxing. Just as the mind dreams in sleep of desires and comforts, so can words of poetry evoke similar calming illusions to bring satiation. Forests of fairy sprites, happenings in Celtic castles, a romantic rendezvous,… any of which can initiate some daydreaming to take it all down a notch. Is this not what some poetry does?

Do you think this is possible? Are there other forms of poetry that take you to that patient place of relaxation and escape? Perhaps even enhances your capacity to perform tasks better after having read them? 

I’d love to hear from you! Please feel free to leave any comments below and let’s talk about how poetry can bring you balance and clarity… without one Tai Chi lesson... or maybe having one would be a great idea after all….! Thank you for reading!

Matt Elmore

Image from: Unsplash 

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2023/11/06/1210507968/thai-chi-word-games-cognition-mentally-sharp-meditation-motion

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7447694/

https://medium.com/inspire-the-mind/the-therapeutic-power-of-poetry-whats-the-evidence-208fa59fe09b#:~:text=The%20study%20found%20reductions%20in,them%20reflect%20on%20their%20feelings.

Expanding Your Poetry

Poetry is a timeless art form that’s practically been around most of humanity. It has the power to capture the essence of emotions and experiences in a condensed, pure and thoughtful manner. If you're an aspiring poet looking to expand your poetic horizons, this blog is for you. Here we'll explore a few simple, yet effective ways to enhance your poetic expression and unlock different creativities. 

1. Experiment with Different Forms

   

One can challenge themselves by exploring various poetic forms such as sonnets, haikus, villanelles, or free verse. Each form offers a unique structure and rhythm that can inspire fresh ideas and stretch your poetic capabilities.

2. Dive into Nature

   

Nature is a profound source of inspiration for poets. I know it plays a major part in my own work. Perhaps try to immerse yourself in its beauty and observe the intricate details. Let the colors, scents, and sounds ignite your imagination, enabling you to hopefully be inspired to paint vivid pictures with your words.

3. Embrace Metaphors and Similes

   

Metaphors and similes add depth and richness to one’s poetry. Compare abstract concepts with tangible objects or draw parallels between unrelated ideas, this will allow your readers to experience your words on multiple levels.

4. Read Widely

   

Expand your poetic palette by diving into the works of a multitude of different poets. Read across different eras, styles, and even cultures. By exposing yourself to diverse voices, you'll certainly start to gain new insights, discover fresh techniques, and broaden your perspective.

5. Practice Regularly

   

Like any craft poetry requires practice. Try to set aside dedicated time for writing, even if it's just a few minutes each day. Use prompts, engage in free writing, or capture snippets of daily observations. With consistent practice, your poetic prowess is sure to create self expansion.

Expanding your poetry is an exciting journey of self-expression and creativity. By embracing different forms, drawing inspiration from nature, employing vivid metaphors, exploring diverse works, and practicing regularly, you'll refine your poetic voice and captivate readers with your words. So I say step beyond your comfort zone and embrace the unknown. Then watch as your poetry soars to new heights. Happy writing everyone! 

Brandon Adam Haven 

Image free for fair use by Freepix