Wanda Canton, a spoken word artist, shares her journey of using creative writing to help those facing mental health crises. They discuss the power of spoken word in conveying emotions, the transformative power of writing and speaking, and strategies for facilitating emotional expression. They also explore the importance of opening up, reconnecting with the body, and seeking support in times of distress.
Spoken word and rap provide individuals with a platform to vocalize and share their internal struggles in a supportive and understanding environment.
Participating in spoken word sessions fosters a sense of community and connection, allowing individuals to form friendships and bonds with others who have similar experiences or mental health challenges.
Deep dives
The Power of Spoken Word and Rap in Expressing Emotions
In this podcast episode, the host meets Wanda Canton, a spoken word and rap artist who facilitates sessions for individuals struggling with expressing themselves. The host attends one of Wanda's sessions and feels intrigued and terrified to participate in the spoken word and rap exercises. However, with Wanda's guidance, the host finds the courage to stand up and share their written piece in front of strangers. Wanda's inclusive and supportive approach creates a safe space for individuals to articulate their thoughts and problems. Through spoken word and rap, people can convey emotions and experiences that are difficult to express in everyday conversations. The power of spoken word lies in the opportunity to vocalize one's internal struggles and be heard and understood by others.
Creating a Supportive Community Through Spoken Word
Wanda emphasizes the importance of community in spoken word sessions. By bringing people together and providing a safe and encouraging environment, individuals can connect with others who have similar experiences or mental health challenges. The sessions foster a sense of connection and offer participants the opportunity to share their thoughts and stories, forming friendships and bonds. The power of spoken word lies in its ability to create a community where individuals can express themselves authentically and be met with acceptance and support.
Overcoming Fear and Building Confidence Through Spoken Word
Spoken word and rap often involve addressing challenging emotions and experiences. Wanda discusses how the process of writing, vocalizing, and performing in front of others can be daunting, but it also offers individuals a chance to confront their fears and build confidence. Wanda's sessions focus on creating a safe space for participants to tolerate their anxieties and uncertainties, and through supportive exercises, individuals discover their own courage and voice. The transformative journey of participating in spoken word allows individuals to overcome self-judgment and embrace vulnerability.
The Benefits of Writing and Expressing Emotions Through Spoken Word
Writing and expressing emotions through spoken word and rap serve as therapeutic outlets. The act of writing itself allows individuals to release thoughts and emotions, creating a physical record of their experiences. Additionally, when spoken out loud, the words take on a new dimension and impact, creating a sense of movement and fostering emotional connection. Spoken word provides a valuable space to explore and express emotions accurately, diversifying emotional vocabulary and enabling individuals to communicate their experiences in a unique and powerful way.
Wanda did not have a great break-up with her boyfriend, but it did spur her to get on stage for the first time... and explain how angry it made her feel.
From that moment, Wanda became a spoken word artist and over the years has helped to change the lives of many facing mental health crisis, through creative writing - including out very own Fearne.
In this ep they discuss their first meeting and how writing and performing in front of others can help in lots of ways.
Find our more about Wanda via her website. Thanks, as ever, to our sponsors Fiit - discover their remarkable FREE workout videos at https://fiit.tv/blogs/get-fiit-with-fearne/