BARDIC POETRY & PHILOSOPHY
Bardic poetry primarily has its roots in Celtic traditions, particularly within the cultures of ancient Ireland, Scotland and Wales, such as the famous Taliesin. The role of the Bard was to compose and recite poetry that celebrated historical events, genealogy, and cultural heritage within society. These traditions also flourished throughout England during the early medieval period, particularly from the 5th to the 12th centuries- our most famous Bard being that of William Shakespeare! Bards used poetry to explore historical narratives which not only fostered a sense of community identity but also served as a vehicle for philosophical exploration, encouraging listeners to reflect on the human experience, ethics, and the complex nature of life itself.
We offer two separate groups to explore the ways of the Bard...
In our weekly Poetry group, we revive the ancient traditions of the Bard, exploring a new theme each week to as we move through the Celtic Wheel Seasons. We will engage in thoughtful discussions on the meanings behind each one, and reflect how it applies to our own personal lives and wellbeing. Then taking our thoughts, we work together to co-create a collective poem, contributing a few lines each. Additionally, participants are encouraged to share their own poems or recite their favourite pieces in a supportive environment, fostering personal growth and confidence as we celebrate the beauty of poetic expression within our community.
While in our monthly Philosophy group, you are warmly invited to join Edward & Kubi for a monthly fireside community gathering, to collectively discuss and ponder the philosophies surrounding the current season of the Celtic Wheel. Reflecting on the wisdom of the past, we find insights that resonate with our lives in the present.
HEALTH BENEFITS
PHILOSOPHICAL DEBATE
CREATIVE COLLABORATION
POETIC EXPRESSION
Engaging in philosophical debate provides significant mental health benefits and opportunities for personal development by fostering critical thinking and self-reflection. A study published in the Journal of Humanistic Psychology found that participants in philosophical discussions experienced a 47% increase in self-awareness and a 32% improvement in emotional regulation (Mason et al., 2018). Additionally, 68% of participants reported feeling more connected to others and more open to differing perspectives, highlighting how these dialogues enhance community and overall well-being.
Creative collaborations (such as writing poems together) provide significant mental health benefits and personal development opportunities by fostering connection and shared purpose. Research shows that individuals involved in collaborative creative projects experience a 50% increase in overall well-being and a 40% boost in self-esteem (Kagan et al., 2019). Additionally, these collaborations enhance problem-solving skills and cognitive flexibility, with 75% of participants reporting increased inspiration and motivation after working together, highlighting their role in promoting personal growth.
Expressing feelings and emotions through poetry offers significant mental health benefits and personal growth opportunities by providing a creative outlet for self-exploration. Research indicates that writing poetry can lead to a 45% reduction in anxiety and a 40% improvement in emotional well-being (Pennebaker et al., 2016). Additionally, sharing poetry with others has been shown to boost confidence, with 75% of participants reporting increased self-assurance after presenting their work in a supportive environment (Murray & Nussbaum, 2020). A study published in the Journal of Poetry Therapy found that 80% of participants reported feeling more connected to their emotions and better equipped to cope with stress after writing poetry, emphasizing its transformative impact on personal development and emotional resilience (Kramer, 2015).
HOW DO I SIGN UP ?
When & Where :
The Bardic Poetry group is held every Monday at 10am inside Glastonbury's St Johns Church Wellbeing Cafe. Whereas the Philosophy group is held once a month in Glastonbury. The location will be given in the Whatsapp group after you've filled out the referral form.
Please bring along a journal and a pen to both.
Cost:
This support group is free if you live in Glastonbury and earn under £25k or £10 per workshop, for those who earn over £25k a year, as part of an honesty scheme, which helps us to keep affording the free spaces for those on a low income.
Join now:
Please fill out our referral form to sign up below: