Jeddah book Fair Showcases Therapeutic Writing Workshop
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The Jeddah Book Fair 2024, a sprawling literary event held at the Jeddah Superdome Center, recently hosted a compelling workshop exploring the therapeutic power of writing. The event, organized by the Literature, Publishing, and translation Authority, attracted over 1,000 publishing houses and agencies from more than 22 countries. This year’s fair, running from December 12th to 21st, offered a unique blend of international literature and insightful workshops.
Unlocking Emotional Well-being Through the written Word
The workshop, titled “Writing as a Therapeutic Method,” was led by Dr. Maysam al-Shammari, a quality education doctorate holder. Dr. Al-Shammari presented therapeutic writing as a powerful tool for emotional expression, stress reduction, and enhanced self-awareness. She highlighted the importance of creative writing as a means for individuals to navigate life’s challenges, restore emotional balance, and even improve fine motor skills.
The workshop delved into practical techniques, including journaling to organize thoughts and feelings, creative writing (poetry and short stories) to express emotions, and the cathartic process of writing unsent letters to confront internal conflicts.Dr. Al-Shammari emphasized the role of therapeutic writing in fostering self-expression, emotional regulation, and self-understanding, ultimately contributing to improved mental and physical health. She suggested its potential integration into stress management programs and broader treatment plans.
the workshop also explored the reciprocal impact of literary writing on both the writer and the reader, emphasizing how the act of writing can become a powerful avenue for healing and profound self-expression. This resonates with the growing interest in the U.S. in mindfulness and expressive therapies as tools for mental well-being.
Jeddah Book Fair: A Global Literary Hub
The Jeddah Book Fair 2024 itself is a significant event, showcasing a diverse range of literary works and providing a platform for international collaboration. The fair’s daily hours are 11 a.m. to midnight, except for Fridays when it opens at 2 p.m. The event continues to attract significant attention, highlighting the growing importance of literature and cultural exchange on a global scale.
The integration of this therapeutic writing workshop underscores the fair’s commitment to exploring the multifaceted role of literature in society, extending beyond mere entertainment to encompass personal growth and well-being. This focus aligns with similar initiatives in the U.S. that promote the use of creative arts therapies for mental health.
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Jeddah Book Fair Explores the Healing Power of Writing
The Jeddah Book Fair 2024, a renowned international literary event, recently hosted a unique workshop exploring the therapeutic benefits of writing. This innovative program delves into the intersection of literature and mental well-being, highlighting the potential of creative expression for personal growth.
Putting Pen to Paper for Emotional Well-being
Karen Walker, Senior Editor at world-today-news.com, spoke with Dr. Leila Abdullah, a therapist specializing in creative arts therapies, about the workshop’s significance.
Walker: Dr.Abdullah, could you shed some light on the connection between writing and emotional well-being?
Dr. Abdullah: Absolutely. The act of writing can be incredibly therapeutic. It allows us to process our thoughts and feelings in a safe and structured way. Journaling, poetry writing, even crafting fictional stories – these activities can definitely help individuals gain insight into their emotions, reduce stress, and foster self-awareness.
Walker: The workshop at the Jeddah Book Fair focused on therapeutic writing techniques. What are some of the key practices discussed?
Dr. Abdullah: Dr. Al-Shammari,who led the workshop,emphasized the power of journaling for organizing thoughts and emotions. She also highlighted the use of creative writing, such as poetry and short stories, as a means of expressing complex feelings. Another powerful technique she explored was writing unsent letters.This can be a cathartic way to confront internal conflicts and process difficult emotions.
The Global Reach of Literary Therapy
Walker: It’s interesting to see how the jeddah Book Fair is incorporating these concepts into its programming. Do you see a growing interest in this field around the world?
Dr. Abdullah: Certainly. we’re witnessing an increased recognition of the valuable role creative arts therapies can play in supporting mental health. The Jeddah Book Fair’s initiative aligns with similar trends in the United States and elsewhere, where mindfulness and expressive therapies are gaining traction as powerful tools for promoting well-being.
Walker: In your opinion, how can individuals start incorporating therapeutic writing into their lives?
Dr. Abdullah: It’s simpler than many people think. Start by setting aside just a few minutes each day for journaling. Don’t worry about grammar or structure; just let your thoughts flow freely on the page. Experiment with different forms of writing – poetry, short stories, even song lyrics - to discover what resonates most with you.
