I recently had the opportunity to talk with the writer and teacher Albert Flynn DeSilver, who interviewed me about my journey as a writer.
Over the past weeks, I've been taking time away from work, writing, and my computer, and, as is so often the case, this pause has been an opportunity for reflection. It's also a big year for me: I turned 50; Eric and I have our 25th wedding anniversary; we're empty—or open—nesting; and I have a book coming out. It's a good time to look both backward and forward.
In the interview with Albert, I talk about:
- My twisty journey as a writer: from resisting majoring in English to embracing literary studies, and then from leaving academia to coming back to teaching in my own way.
- How and why I began to integrate meditation and yoga into my writing practices.
- The political divides in the writing worlds between the academic and the spiritual, the intellectual and the heart-centered.
- How to integrate activism with mindfulness and writing.
- What success means to me as a writer.
I used to think that to find my place, I would need to "fit in" somewhere, but I've found that my journey as a writer has been one of trusting in my own path and finding bridges and connections that help break down false dichotomies.
I hope you'll enjoy watching the interview.
If you watch it, let me know.
I also have some questions you might like to reflect on:
- What has shaped your particular relationship with writing? Where did it start, and how did it develop?
- How do you integrate the path of your intellect and the path of your heart? Do they sometimes pull you in different directions? Do they strengthen each other?
- How do you define success for yourself?
I hope you find these questions helpful. As always, I love you hear from you. Leave a comment below!
I watched the interview which I thought was fabulous and the way you integrate spirituality and yoga into your work resonates with me so much . I’ve studied withCarol Day who is a visionary teacher and writer and a lot of what you said in the interview I very much loved listening too x
Hi Nadia.
Very interesting interview. I can relate to feeling a disconnect in my period of academia and trying to reconcile the different aspects of myself. The wrong space with others is also very important. I can either feel very blocked or open, fluid and inspired.
I find your space very inspiring and love the mindful aspect of it.
Good luck with your book.
Best wishes.
Helen