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Writing Exercise

Jeff Davis stretches the body muscles and the writing muscles

A A A Comments By Rhonda Reinhart Thursday, Jan 1 2004

The relationship between yoga and writing seems like a natural correlation. One twists the body while the other twists the mind, and the result is a feeling of release and relief. Much like exercise, putting thoughts on paper can be a daunting task, but what you get in return is usually worth it. As one of our old journalism professors used to say, "Writing is like throwing up. You hate to do it, but you feel so much better after you've done it." Couldn't have said it better.

Details

The free discussion takes place at 7 p.m. Friday. The workshops are Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and cost is $50 for one day or $85 for both. All events are at Priya Yoga Center, 6337 Prospect Ave. Call 214-370-8900.

More About

Author Jeff Davis recognizes this partnership between the mental and the physical, and he's even written a book about it. (See what yoga can do for you?) Titled Journey From the Center to the Page: Yoga Philosophies and Practices as Muse for Authentic Writing, Davis' book is set for release in June. But until then, the writing instructor and yoga teacher is traveling the country to show those who work with words how yoga can enrich their writing.

Davis' travels will bring the former Dallasite back to town this weekend for a discussion of his forthcoming book and two workshops that will "show writers how to get out of their heads and into their bodies." The workshops will address such topics as writing with passion and compassion and handling what Davis calls the inner heckler, and the programs are open to writers of all sorts regardless of their yoga experience. But be forewarned. According to Davis' Web site (www.centertopage.com), "Yoga is no cure-all. But it is a viable way to test out for yourself what works." So if you've got writer's block, then check it out. It could open some doors in your subconscious you didn't even know existed. But if your problem is more functional--as in, your writing should stay hidden away in that journal no one sees (bless your heart)--then don't hold out for a miracle. Yoga ain't magic.

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