Would you like to know more about the writing ritual activity Docturne organizes? Then here’s your chance. Geraldine, an active participant in the writing ritual meetings, explains how the activity works and why it has been so well liked among our members.
Although the actual writing of your papers, articles and thesis can seem a lonely and solitary affair at times, Docturne’s writing ritual has proven that there is strength in numbers and regular meet ups. Throughout last year, the writing rituals saw a regular flow of doctoral colleagues meeting for 2 hours, 3-4 times per week. A minute’s mediation to free the mind and some simple stretching exercises kicked off each session. Attendees would write or work on other related items for 45 minutes, alone, but alongside other supportive members. A short 10-minute break usually involved a quick visit to the kitchen to brew tea or coffee, often enjoyed with some shared ‘virtual’ cakes. Some members used this time to chat, either about personal, everyday stuff or asking and offering advice about PhD related topics. Promptly, after 10 minutes, our very own task master, Yoojin, would remind us that it was time to start the final 45-minute slot. Stretching and a restorative meditation ended the writing ritual with many of us continuing to write or work productively, since the ritual had set an inspiring tone to the day or evening.
Knowing that someone is working in companionable silence alongside us is not only a powerful and motivating tool, but the ritual also helped forge new friendships and connections. A small group of us had a fun and inspiring day to mark the end of the semester and celebrate the lifting of Covid restrictions. We met in person to do some writing (not much it has to be said), and enjoyed discussing our PhD journeys, getting to know each other better over a picnic, a walk and of course an open air, wind blowing through the trees, restorative meditation.
Join us for writing rituals this Autumn term to help set the tempo for your research and writing and create new connections and friendships within the Docturne community.
Written by: Geraldine Chell, doctoral researcher (OPPI)