World Poetry Day

| World Poetry Day is a time to appreciate poetry and celebrate poets around the world.

by Anna Westerberg

Get inspired on World Poetry Day, and start exploring your creative side. There is no right or wrong when writing creatively, and the health benefits are plenty.

A creative outlet to channel your thoughts could have a healing effect on low mood, stress, depression and anxiety. March 21 marks World Poetry Day and offers a chance to learn more about this craft.

Poet and librarian Richard Price is a frequent visitor at The Poetry Cafe in central London. His advice, for those glancing at the keyboard, wondering how to get started, is: "Go to the library, read heaps of poetry, find out what you like and dislike."

It can give you a sense of dealing with your thoughts hands on.

The benefits of dancing, painting and writing are being used in creativity therapy, as an alternative to traditional therapy. Even if you don't normally write, writing and reading poetry could help you combat the blues. Here is why it is good for you:

• You may be able to express yourself in a way you cannot with others.

• It can give you a sense of dealing with your thoughts hands on.

• Creating and being non-judgmental can reverse some of the "negativity of depression" according to the website Everyday Health.

UK's Poetry Society is another good place to start. The good old world wide web is also good for reading and publishing creative texts. Indulge in Pinterest, YouTube, download poetry apps, or simply google to find poetry that tickles your fancy.

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