Frequently Asked Questions About My Writing Retreats
A writing retreat can help you progress with your first book. But what exactly is a writing retreat, and what can you expect?
While all writing retreats are different, my writing retreats in Hay-on-Wye are gentle and creative with plenty of good food and great company.
As I’m a coach for creative people, I’ll use my coaching skills to help you ground yourself and set your intentions. We don’t rush, things and the schedule is designed to nurture your creativity, without pressure. My retreats will begin with a gentle check-in, and of course we’ll all introduce ourselves to one another. I’ll invite you to set your intentions for the retreat, and discuss what you’d like to get out of the experience. I will always provide lovely refreshments for you and take note of any dietary needs of course too.
What’s the purpose of a writing retreat?
For me it’s about offering a dedicated space to write, percolate ideas, learn from experts and also immerse ourselves in a creatively stimulating environment. And as it’s a retreat I’d like for you to feel soothed or invigorated or grounded or inspired… however you’d like to feel, especially if you really want to get your writerly mojo back, I’m here to help you find it.
Why are my writing retreats in Hay-on-Wye?
Hay is famous for its bookshops and literary festivals. It’s a beautiful town, located rurally and the surrounding nature is stunning. A lot of the people who join my retreats live in cities and love the chance to get away from their urban environment into a more tranquil place, with a slower pace. So in addition to the bookshops, you’ll be near to a stunning river (the Wye) and be able to enjoy the gentleness of Hay as well as glean creative inspiration here. Hay really brings the right mix of quirky creativity and natural beauty.
Who are my writing retreats for?
Anyone who has a desire to write is welcome on my retreats. You do not need to be a published author to sign up. I work with adults of all genders and particularly welcome neurodivergent folks and people from he LGBTQ+ communities. Everyone is welcome and it does not matter what stage or your writing journey you are at or what genre you are writing in.
Are there wellbeing activities on my writing retreats?
Yes, I will offer you the chance to enjoy a yoga class or other wellbeing activity during your retreat. While it’s optional, it’s included in the price, so I’d highly recommend you taking the chance to gently move your body, because after all those hours writing you definitely deserve some TLC.
Helen Jane Campbell
photo of Hay-on-Wye by Billie Charity