Pausing to Ponder Together (with Poems that Inspire)

An evening to slow down, listen deeply, and let poetry spark reflection, writing, and connection.

Join us for a gentle yet inspiring two-hour online gathering, where poetry becomes the doorway to pause, ponder, and reconnect with yourself. Each event will centre on a carefully chosen theme and poem. Through guided prompts, you’ll explore what the poem stirs in you — insights, memories, emotions, or creative sparks — and follow that thread into your own writing.

There will be space for:

• Individual reflection — time to listen inward and write freely
• Gentle sharing — opportunities to connect with others, always at the level you’re comfortable with
• Mindful presence — prompts and pauses that help you settle, notice, and trust your own wisdom

These gatherings are stand-alone sessions: you are warmly welcome whether you join regularly or only when a theme resonates.

Expect a warm, calm, and respectful atmosphere — a space that nurtures self-compassion, invites playfulness, and honours the wisdom that emerges when we slow down together.

Come as you are, and leave feeling grounded, inspired, and connected. (An interest in or knowledge of poetry is not a requirement!)

Practical notes:

• Please bring pen and paper (coloured pens welcome if you enjoy them).
• For security and presence, the waiting room will close shortly after the start time, and participants are asked to keep cameras on.
• All sessions are online and last two hours.
• You’re welcome to attend one or many — each event has its own theme and poem.

Photo credits: Thought Catalog and Camille Brodard on Unsplash.com

Some comments from previous participants at Maria's online and in-person workshops:

"Maria is a skilled facilitator who always created a warm, inclusive environment for her online workshops. She obviously put a lot of work into choosing thought provoking topics and resources, providing a variety of modalities for exploration of the ideas generated. Group discussions were well moderated and she held space for all participants well."

"I absolutely recommend Maria's workshops. This is my second one facilitated by Maria and I am very impressed by the way she conducts them. Her lovely warm demeanour creates a safe and nurturing space. The other participants are all so respectful and helpful. There is such a beautiful energy in the room and I attribute this to Maria. Also I have gained beneficial insights into myself that I wasn't expecting. There was also good fun throughout."

(From Longing to Living workshop) "I always find Maria very calm, relaxing. She listens but also offers some very insightful ideas and insights to help look at issues in different ways."

(From Longing to Living Workshop) "The workshop was incredibly helpful for me. It revealed what I need to do step by step and also revealed what my fears are and what I need to do to help consider them on my journey."

"I loved the insights that I learned from the creative exercises. I am not naturally creative and would over analyse. The exercises are timed so that I did not have time to over-think it. The variety of exercises and the interaction with others was a great learning for me."

"Any topic you cover...it's always worthwhile attending your workshops, Maria."