Since 2016 Tom has been running writing workshops with charities and literary festivals. Tom has developed an approach called Mindful Writing which uses mindfulness to unlock creativity in a non-judgmental way. Participants are given a range of exercises inviting reflection on nature, the seasons, the body and senses, feelings and memories. The intention is to write spontaneously and be ‘in flow’. The exercises may incorporate natural objects such as rocks, shells and feathers as writing prompts, or elements of crafts and colouring.
Through the sessions, participants may find that writing blocks are dissolved and they gain confidence for their own writing projects; they may also gain insights into themselves and their personal wellbeing or spirituality. During the sessions, Tom facilitates discussion on the themes and sharing of written work is encouraged, though voluntary. He also gives advice on journaling and establishing a regular writing practice.
If time and location allows, a nature walk or visit to a green space can be included. The session can also include guided meditation, for which no experience is needed.
Testimonials:
“We were delighted to be able to book Tom George for the Sherbourne Literary Festival. The feedback from the people who attended Tom’s workshop was fantastic, all the delegrates thoroughly enjoyed their day, and many friendships were made. Tom is professional, energetic and able to work with people of all levels of abilities. We would not hesitiate to invite him back to do more workshops” – Jules Bradburn, director Sherbourne Literary Festival”
“Liverpool Mental Health Festival has worked with Tom in his capacity both as a performer and workshop facilitator over the last five years. During this time, he has been a valued contributor to the Mental Health Festival which we co-ordinate, running very successful workshops on Mindful Writing. He has demonstrated his commitment to mental wellbeing and the importance of creativity in maintaining good mental health, which is an ethos we share” – Sarah Butler-Boycott, Liverpool Mental Health Consortium
“I really enjoyed this and found it has re-inspired my passion for writing. Thank you so much Tom” – Attendee
Partners include: Abergavenny Literature Festival, Banbury Literary Live, Beverley Litfest, Carlisle Borderlines Festival, Felixstowe Litfest, Wirral Poetry Festival, Liverpool Mental Health Festival, Huddersfield Literary Festival, Sherbourne Literary Festival, Shrewsbury Literary Festival, Reach Mens Centre, BBC Up For Arts, Liverpool Womens’ Hospital.
Tom George 