Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare. –– Audre Lorde

Devoting time to caring for oneself as an artist is not always understood or considered legitimate and/or worthwhile by society at large. Even within writing communities it is sometimes difficult to be able to take a step back in order to care for oneself as an artist. Sometimes the artist's concerns are not considered "serious." During this session, we will consider what radical self-care could look like and consider some of these questions:

• How do you take care of yourself as a writer? A teaching artist?
• What are some of your priorities?
• When do you know it's time to take a step back or to say no?
• Is there a routine? What is daily life like?
• What have you sacrificed?
• What have you gained?
• How have you gone about caring for yourself as a writer while still being an involved member of literary communities?
• What safe spaces have you found or created?
• What makes these spaces safe? What are the ingredients?

In this generative space, we will be using meditation, movement, music, conversation, and writing to create spaces of self– and community–care. We will be doing some simple, accessible yoga stretches suitable for all. If you can, bring a yoga mat (some extra mats might be available for use) or blanket, and wear comfortable clothes.

Workshop led by Cathy Linh Che & Kenji Liu, as part of the Desert Poetry Convening in Landers and Joshua Tree, April 7– 9.