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Poetry & Healing
I have long been fascinated by the interweaving relationship between poetry, psychology, & the healing arts. I'm often in awe of the way in which poetry, literature, and art can bring about processes of profound recognition, deep insight, & holistic transformation.
When we immerse ourselves in joining with the art that speaks to us, we often emerge from the experience changed, with a wider perspective and a greater appreciation for the art which we embody and which embodies us as well.
I invite poetry into my work with others in a number of ways, including reading poetry together that is pertinent to their current life experiences; providing specific writing prompts that invite a fuller expression of the truths that need to be acknowledged & honored; and empowering clients to give voice to those very truths, wisdoms, and affirmations.
I hold a special place for the powerful practice of Spoken Word Poetry, having studied the therapeutic factors involved in writing & performing Spoken Word Poetry, and often lead workshops on the blending of Spoken Word with diverse therapeutic styles, approaches, and contexts.
Presently, I am in the midst of a Fulbright Scholarship in Azerbaijan, focused on exploring the inherently therapeutic elements of Azerbaijani poetry and folklore to collaboratively design and implement therapeutic poetry programs in a manner that is culturally relevant and reverent. You may learn more about the project here.
Lastly, I am presently in the process of compiling my written works of poems and short stories for publication.
Stay tuned & keep reading fam,
Elnur Gajiev, PsyD
Therapeutic Benefits of Poetry & Writing
Poetry Resources
Poetry Therapy
If you're interested in learning more about the use of poetry in a therapeutic & exploratory manner, please feel free to dig deeper into these lovely resources:
National Association
for Poetry Therapy
You may also take a look at these recent, accessibly published articles:
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How Poetry Therapy can Tap into Our Creativity to Overcome Depression, PTSD, & more
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CNN Article & Video on The Most Creative Path to Mental Health You’ve Never Tried
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The Therapeutic Benefit of Poetry: Poetry Therapy and the Impact of Poetic Dialogue
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Poetry Therapy: Why Reading and Writing Poems is Good For You
Lastly, please be sure to check out these exceptional texts, programs, & sites:
Poetry is not a luxury, it is a vital necessity of our existence.
It forms the quality of the light within which we predicate our hopes and dreams toward survival and change, first made into language, then into idea, then into more tangible action. Poetry is the way we help give name to the nameless. Poetry is not only a dream and vision; it is the skeleton architecture of our lives. It lays the foundations for a future of change, a bridge across our fears of what has never been before.
-Audre Lorde
