The Healing Power of Poetry

A spotlight in the Journal of Poetry Therapy highlights the growing recognition of poetry as a healing tool for individuals navigating serious health challenges. The article, "Evaluating the Use of Poetry to Improve Well-being and Emotional Resilience in Cancer Patients," was co-authored by John Fox, founder of the Institute for Poetic Medicine, who we are proud to have as part of our Crescent Moon Center community. 

In the study, twelve women living with cancer participated in six weekly poetry therapy sessions. The sessions provided a supportive space where participants could read poems, write reflectively, and share their emotions in community. The goal was to provide a way for participants to process their experiences and emotions in a creative, non-clinical setting. 

The participants showed a significant reduction in anxiety and emotional suppression, especially surrounding anger — a common, but often unspoken, emotional response to illness. In contrast, those who did not participate in the poetry sessions saw little change. These findings support what we have seen firsthand at Crescent Moon Center: poetry helps people feel heard, seen, and connected to themselves and community.

We believe that creative expression is not just a form of art, it's also a form of self-care and a path to holistic wellness. Whether through poetry, equine-assisted learning, or expressive arts, we hold space for people to heal and feel supported. 

Click here to read the full article and learn more about how poetry can encourage growth and resilience.