This month we look at poetry and nature for stress relief and inner connection.

July invites us into the height of summer - a season of openness, colour and ripe expression. As the sun heats up the land, we are reminded to soften pace and listen inward. letting the soul speak in whispers and symbols.

Poetry and Nature for Stress Relief:

For many of us, poetry isn't something we read in books. And, if you are anything like me, writing poetry is not something I enjoy in a formal way. Poetry can be anywhere - it can be the feeling of warm breeze on our skin. The way petals open slowly each day. The early morning birdsong and stillness before anyone else is awake. The rush of emotion when we pause long enough to notice how much beauty is around when we stop to notice.

When we slow down to notice, this is a form of meditation. Being in the present moment with the beauty around us helps us to reduce stress.

Poetry and Nature for Inner Connection:

This month, in our Nature and Soul Circles, we are exploring Poetry Within - using intuitive, creative practices to draw out the inner voice that live beneath thoughts and structures. Through guided meditation, time in nature, and gentle writing that comes from inside, we begin to notice what the soul has been waiting to say.

Reflective Practice:

Poetry for Stress Relief and Inner Connection -

Create a Nature poem in 3 steps:

• go outside for 10 minutes - no phone, no pressure, just be

• notice 3 things that speak to you - a flower, a sound, a shadow, a bee

• let the words appear - resist the urge to edit yourself - let your pen translate what you feel into a few lines or even just one phrase or a set of single words on the paper

This is not about 'good writing' it is about connection with your inner experience. Nature reminds us who we are beneath all the 'doing' - poetic beings made of emotions, presence and spirit. Poetry from nature and spark an inner connection.

What is your soul trying to say this season?

Let the sunlight and your breath guide you. Try this activity in different settings or weathers and see how nature can inspire inner connection in a variety of your favourite places.

In Creative Joy,

Amanda