Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words.

— Robert Frost

Poetry can be one of the most beautiful forms of written and spoken language. For centuries, it has been used to give shape to difficult feelings, like grief, depression and heartache. Poems offer a way to navigate and confront thoughts, emotions and struggles, as well as provide a safe space to share them with others. 

Today is an excellent opportunity to celebrate poets and their efforts to explore emotions, mental health and the world around us. Here are some suggestions to make it a Great Poetry Day:

• Invite people over for a poetry reading, either in person or over a video call, today or sometime soon. Have everyone chose a favorite poem or two and read them aloud.

• Go to the library and delve into the poetry section. Find an author, topic or poem anthology to check out. 

• Start up or join a poetry club and dig into to the world of poetry with others.

• Did you know you can listen to poems as well? Poetry Foundation provides free daily audio recordings of classic and contemporary poems read by poets and actors. It can be the perfect way to start your day, or have it on in the background while you work, drive or clean around the house.

• Try your hand at writing a poem and share it with friends. 

Reading poetry as well as writing poems can be a wonderful form of self-care. These can be part of your morning centering practice or a way to unwind in the evening. Making poetry a part of your daily life can be helpful with reducing stress, building your vocabulary and improving memory. Happy Great Poetry Day!