S4:E5 - Mindfulness and Writing: A Journey with April Davila

Welcome back to Season 4 of "Is That SOO?" I'm Harry Turner, The Nocturnal Therapist, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with April Davila, an accomplished author and coach. Our conversation revolved around the powerful role mindfulness plays in enhancing writing quality and creativity. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion and practical steps you can start incorporating into your writing practice today.

How Mindfulness Improved Writing Quality

April shared her journey of how adopting a regular mindfulness practice significantly improved her writing. Before embracing mindfulness, she found herself struggling to maintain focus and overcome the emotional challenges tied to her stories. By incorporating mindfulness into her routine, she gained clarity, focus, and the ability to tackle difficult emotional themes in her writing.

Practical Steps for Writers

1. Start with Insight Meditation

April recommends beginning your writing session with a 10-minute insight meditation. This practice involves:

• Finding a Quiet Space: Sit comfortably and close your eyes.
• Focusing on an Anchor: This could be your breath, the sounds around you, or a candle flame.
• Noticing When Your Mind Wanders: When distractions arise, gently bring your attention back to your anchor.
• Shifting Focus to Writing: After the meditation, let your writing become the new anchor. Continue to gently redirect your thoughts back to your writing when distractions occur.

2. Incorporate Kindness and Self-Compassion

Mindfulness is not just about focus; it’s also about being kind to yourself. April highlighted the importance of treating yourself with kindness, especially when your inner critic surfaces. Instead of harsh self-judgment, acknowledge your thoughts and gently refocus on your writing. This approach helps you stay productive and reduces the negative impact of self-criticism.

3. Use Mindfulness to Improve Editing

Mindfulness can also enhance your editing process. April discussed the Buddhist concept of "right view," which involves seeing things as they truly are. When editing, be mindful of the difference between what you imagine and what’s actually on the page. This clarity can significantly reduce the number of editing rounds, making your process more efficient and enjoyable.

The Impact of Mindfulness on Personal Growth

Beyond writing, mindfulness has profound effects on personal growth and relationships. April shared how mindfulness helped her navigate interpersonal relationships with more clarity and compassion. By understanding and accepting her own needs and boundaries, she has been able to foster healthier and more fulfilling connections.

Practical Steps for Personal Growth

1. Regular Self-Reflection

Take time each day to reflect on your thoughts and feelings. Journaling can be a powerful tool for self-reflection, helping you understand your inner landscape and make conscious decisions about your actions and relationships.

2. Mindfulness in Relationships

Practice active listening and compassionate communication. When engaging with others, focus on truly understanding their perspective without immediate judgment. This approach can deepen your connections and improve the quality of your interactions.

Resources for Further Exploration

April mentioned several resources for those interested in diving deeper into mindfulness and writing:

• Meditation Apps: Apps like Headspace or Insight Timer can guide you through meditation practices.
• Mindfulness Teachers: Explore teachings from renowned mindfulness teachers like Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield.
• Writing Groups: Consider joining a mindfulness-focused writing group. April runs such a group where each session starts with a meditation.

Final Thoughts

Our conversation with April Davila was incredibly enlightening. Her insights into the intersection of mindfulness and writing offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to enhance their creativity and productivity. By integrating mindfulness into your daily routine, you can not only improve your writing but also foster personal growth and stronger relationships.

As we continue this season of "Is That SOO?" I hope you find inspiration and practical advice in our discussions. Our mission remains to assist you in developing the audacity to live unapologetically authentic lives. Until next time, stay lit, stay true, and continue seeking self-knowledge and light.

Gratitude for joining us, and I look forward to sharing more enlightening conversations with you in future episodes.

Contact Information:

Connect with April Dávila for more insights on mindfulness and writing. Download her free guide, "Write More, Suffer Less: How Mindfulness Can Make You A Happier, More Productive Writer," at https://aprildavila.com/write-more-suffer-less-2/. For more information and to learn how to pronounce her name, visit https://aprildavila.com/faq/.

Listen to the Full Conversation

To hear the full conversation with April Davila, listen to the podcast episode here. Gain further insights into the intersection of mindfulness and writing, and learn practical steps for incorporating mindfulness into your creative process.