Poetry as a Living Practice

Sonia Iris Lozada, author of Poetry as a Living Practice In this season of Poetic Resurrection, I explore poetry as a living practice by sharing poems from Awakening Dreams. A poem continues to change long after I have written its final line. When I return to it months or years later, experience brings something new to the reading. A phrase I once understood through sorrow may reveal acceptance. A question may become more complex, or I may finally be ready to sit with it.

That ongoing conversation is at the heart of Poetic Resurrection.

Through the podcast, I bring poetry into spoken performance and explore its relationship to memory, identity, spirituality, and everyday life. My work as a writer and performer meets here: the words on the page become voice, rhythm, breath, and silence. Reading aloud allows me to discover where a poem asks us to pause and what feelings emerge in that space.

My published collections—including Inspire Me: Raw, Inspire Me: Perceptions, Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams, and Follow: Akashic Dreaming Through Time—explore different aspects of our inner lives. Across these books, I return to questions about how we understand ourselves, what we carry, and how our understanding changes over time.

In this season of Poetic Resurrection, I have been sharing poems from Awakening Dreams. Revisiting them offers an opportunity to reflect on both the experiences behind the writing and what the poems mean to me today.

My recent episode, “When Doing Gives Way to Being,” explores a shift in priorities that I have felt in my own life. Growing up with little, I placed great importance on achievement and financial security. I wanted my work to be seen. Those desires shaped many of my choices.

I still care about reaching readers and listeners. But I have become more attentive to the quality of my daily life. The pleasure of creating, the freedom to follow an idea, and the peace of having time to reflect. Poetry helps me examine that shift honestly, including the uncertainty that comes with it.

Poetry as a Living Practice Through Meditation

My meditation work offers another way to share these explorations. Through The Still Point Minute, my year-long series of short meditations on YouTube, I invite viewers to pause and reflect on themes such as presence, compassion, trust, and freedom. Poetry and guided meditation both encourage close attention—to a word, a feeling, a memory, or a moment we might otherwise pass over. These recordings offer an accessible space for reflection and a gentle invitation to return to ourselves.

Alongside my poetry and audio work, I am developing a collection of dream-based psychological science-fiction stories. These drafts allow me to explore consciousness, perception, and identity through characters and imagined worlds. Working in another form brings fresh questions to my writing and challenges me to find different ways of expressing them.

Poetic Resurrection remains a place where I can share that evolving practice. Each episode begins with something that has held my attention and an invitation to consider it together.

I hope you will listen to “When Doing Gives Way to Being” and explore the poems and conversations throughout the podcast. Perhaps something you hear will stay with you—or help you find words for an experience of your own.

Thank you for joining me in exploring Poetry as a Living Practice, and may these words offer a moment of connection and reflection in your own life.

Many Blessings,
Sonia Iris Lozada

December 15, 2025

A Year of Returning to a Still Point

A Year of Returning to the Still Point

This year asked for a different kind of presence. A still point.

There were moments when forward motion slowed, when the body required care, and when creativity had to soften its grip and listen rather than produce. Loss, recovery, and the quiet work of endurance reshaped how I moved through my days—and how Poetic Resurrection continued to unfold.

What became clear is this: creativity does not disappear when we slow down. It deepens.

What This Year Held

Much of this year was spent tending rather than sharing. Writing became more intentional. Recording became quieter. Some weeks, showing up meant resting instead of creating, trusting that presence itself was meaningful.

Poetic Resurrection has always been rooted in listening—to grief, to perception, to the spaces between thoughts where truth often emerges. This year reinforced that foundation. It became less about output and more about honoring rhythm.

Not as retreat from the world, but as a way of meeting it with greater care.

The Still Point Reveals Itself

From this recalibration emerged The Still Point Minute.

SPM is a daily, one-minute meditation series—sixty seconds of intentional presence designed for real life. It does not ask for transformation or mastery. It offers a pause.

Each meditation is brief by design, created for the spaces between obligations, before sleep, or at the beginning of a day that already feels full. Monthly themes such as balance, presence, gratitude, and peace guide the series gently, without urgency.

SPM is not about achieving calm. It is about remembering it.

Why One Minute Matters

In a culture shaped by speed and constant demand, one minute becomes an act of quiet permission.

One minute is accessible. One minute is sustainable. One minute can shift the tone of an entire day.

The Still Point Minute exists as a companion rather than a solution—an invitation to return, again and again, to what steadies you.

Moving Forward

Poetic Resurrection and the podcast continues as a living practice, shaped by experience rather than expectation. Poetry, reflection, and presence remain intertwined here, offered without pressure to perform or keep pace.

If this year has felt heavy, disorienting, or tender for you as well, know that this space was created with that reality in mind.

You are welcome to return as you are. One minute at a time.

— Sonia

May 23, 2025May 22, 2025

Cosmos – A Journey into Oneness

Welcome to the Poetic Resurrection Podcast. I’m Sonia Iris Lozada—poet, voice, soul traveler.

Today’s offering is a moment of stillness and remembrance.
A breath into the vastness within us… and around us.

What if your body wasn’t just matter… but a shimmering map of memory?
What if your cells knew how to dance the cosmos?

Reading of “Cosmos” from Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams.

We are not just bodies.
We are stardust stories.
Every ache, every joy—encoded into light.

This poem came through as a reminder:
We don’t have to hold ourselves together so tightly.
Sometimes, the breaking is how we remember.
Sometimes, the scattering is how we reconnect.

When you feel lost…
maybe you are simply orbiting — in motion,
becoming.

And when you return to yourself,
you bring the wisdom of the stars.

You are the cosmos.
Shimmering. Expanding. Returning.

Thank you for joining me in this moment.
If this touched something in you, I invite you to sit with it…
breathe with it… or share it with someone whose soul might need it.

You can find more of my poetic transmissions, including my book Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams, on my website at poeticresurrection.com.
PR Podcast
Until next time…
Walk gently.
Speak soul.
And remember—your light shimmers with blessings

May 22, 2025

Lost for Words A Reckoning

Thank you for joining me for another episode of Poetic Resurrection. I must be open with you—life has recently been a tumultuous journey. I understand that this is merely a temporary phase, but my aspirations producing this podcast season with video and on a weekly basis have slipped through my fingers like sand. I’m healing from an injury, which has added to the complexity of my days. My father is unwell, and I’ve had to make multiple trips to Chicago to be by his side. Although the podcast was something I truly wished to pursue, the clarity and motivation seemed to elude me, like mist in the early morning light.

However, a silver lining shines through as my book, Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams, has garnered the most glowing reviews I’ve ever received for my writing. This book, a labor of love years in the making, delves deeply into the themes of grief while also exploring the triumph over personal obstacles through wisdom and the act of surrender. Today, I will delve into my poem “Lost for Words,” which reflects on navigating the complexities of our modern world and understanding our role within it. It speaks to overcoming life’s myriad challenges and realizing that we alone hold the power to transform the perceptions of our thoughts and emotions.

Lost for Words

Sometimes I’m lost for words
Seems a strange phrase
When you’re a poet and writer
But I am lost in words and thoughts

Sometimes I’m lost for words
When I see blatant discrimination
as others walk by and ignore
When I see verbal abuse
When I see others suffering

Sometimes I’m lost for words
When our country doesn’t stand for its people
but for those who yearn for the absolute
When selfishness is the norm
When abuse is acceptable

Sometimes I’m lost for words
When loving others is questioned
we love because we exist
When caring for one another is uncommon
When an act of kindness is unusual

Sometimes I’m lost for words
When religious followers use the Golden Rule
but fail to understand what it means
When you pick and choose where your honor rests
When it’s utilized to condone cruel behavior

But I do have faith in humanity
I had faith that when the pandemic was over
we would have learned our lessons
In accepting our neighbor, no matter the difference
In religion, in culture, in the color of our skin.

I wish for acceptance and love—the words I treasure
The words I yearn to hear and feel
the words that are success for the heart
Sometimes I find my words
In a smile, in kindness, and in hope

August 28, 2024August 28, 2024

Inam Inamullah – Author/Artist

Inam Inamullah - Poetic Resurrection Podcast This month, our guest on the Poetic Resurrection Podcast is Inam Inamullah. We delve into his book “Whispers of the Flight,” a Sufistic novel that explores the journey of self-discovery through life’s peaks and valleys. In addition, we take a look at his personal experiences and how he rose to become an internationally recognized artist, with one of his commissioned pieces displayed at the Carnegie Hall Tower in New York City. It was a fascinating conversation with a guest who has much wisdom to share. Don’t miss it!

Whispers of Flight - Poetic Resurrection Podcast Inam, originally from South Asia, is a world-renowned artist, poet, and playwright. His work has earned international acclaim for its depth, creativity, and spiritual insight. Despite the challenges he faced early in life, including the hardships brought on by polio, Inam found solace in his art. Through resilience and a profound sense of creativity, he transformed his struggles into a source of beauty and inspiration.

Inam’s artistic journey is not confined to the canvas alone; his passion for the written word is evident in his prolific contributions to poetry and playwriting. His works reflect a deep appreciation for the ancient wisdom imparted by Sufi sages, which has unveiled the mysteries of the universe to him.

A graduate of UCLA with an MBA, Inam also serves as a Life Coach, guiding others through their own journeys of transformation. His commitment to giving back to the community led him to found the Glitter of Hope Foundation, a local charity dedicated to supporting single mothers and orphans, primarily within the refugee community.

Inam’s latest work, “Whispers of The Flight,” offers readers a profound journey that promises to illuminate the path to inner transformation. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a lover of allegorical tales, or someone on a quest for deeper understanding, this work ensures a transformative experience that resonates deeply with the soul.

Listen to the podcast here

Amazon link: https://amzn.to/472w8tO – whispers of the flight

Find out more about his artwork: https://www.inamgallery.com/

Whispers of Flight site: www.whispersoftheflight.com

Inam’s life coaching site: www.elevatelife.guru

July 3, 2024July 2, 2024

Poetry and Social Media

As a poet, I struggle with promoting my work on social media, but here are some tips that I hope will be helpful to you and me both. Social media has become a crucial tool for poets to showcase their poetry and connect with a wider audience. What was once seen as a solitary art form is now thriving online, with popular platforms like Instagram, X, Facebook and other platforms are being used by poets and readers alike.

For marginalized communities in particular, social media has provided a platform to amplify their voices and share their experiences through the unique medium of poetry. From poets of color to LGBTQ+ poets, these platforms have created a sense of community and support for those whose voices have long been silenced.

But it’s not just about sharing poems; social media has also completely changed the way poets promote their work. By utilizing hashtags and creating visually appealing content, poets can reach a larger audience and connect with readers from around the world. The popularity of Instagram has also given rise to visual poetry, allowing poets to present their work in new and creative ways.

However, social media is not only a promotional tool – it also allows poets to interact with their audience. By sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses into their writing process and engaging in discussions about their work, poets can build a strong online presence and cultivate a dedicated fan base who will help spread their work through likes, shares, and retweets.

So, for any poets out there looking to promote their work, don’t underestimate the power of social media. Embrace these platforms, interact with your audience, and share your poetry with the world. With some strategic thinking and creativity, social media can take your poetry to new heights and attract new readers.

Instagram: @poeticsonia

YouTube Channel

January 29, 2024January 28, 2024

Poetry – Shade of Being Poem

Poetry - Shade of Being by Sonia Iris Lozada In this January 2024 episode, I’ll discuss poetry and read Shade of Being.

Poetry became my outlet, my means of processing and articulating the complexities of my dual identity. Through the rhythmic words and vivid imagery, I could capture the nuances of my emotions, the clash of cultures, and the struggles of navigating between two worlds. It allowed me to explore and embrace the beauty of both sides of my heritage, while also acknowledging the challenges and conflicts that arose from it. Poetry became a form of self-discovery and self-expression, a way for me to make sense of my place in the world. It provided solace and comfort in times of confusion and uncertainty, offering me a sense of validation and understanding that I couldn’t find elsewhere. Poetry became my therapy, my self-help, and my sanctuary, guiding me through the complexities of my bi-cultural upbringing and shaping me into the person I am today.

In my teens, I had a poetry notebook I would carry with me everywhere, treasuring the words I had carefully written. However, one unfortunate day in the bustling streets of Chicago, my three-ring binder slipped from my grasp and scattered its contents in the wind. Helplessly watching as my precious poetry scattered into the air, I felt a deep sense of loss. Unlike today, where technology allows us to back up our work easily, back then, everything was typed, and I didn’t have a copy of my poetry. Despite this setback, I refused to let it deter me from my passion. I continued to write, pouring my emotions and thoughts onto paper. Over the years, I have managed to compile my poetry into four books, each representing a different phase of my life. “Inspire Me Series: Book 1 & 2” was published in 2022, previously published were “Inspire Me: Perception” and “Follow Akashic Dreaming Through Time” in 2019. My first book, “Inspire Me: Raw,” was released in 2017, marking the beginning of my journey as a published poet. Currently, I am eagerly working on the third installment of the Inspire Me Series, titled “Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams.”

In, Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams I hope to take the readers on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. It delves into the depths of one’s subconscious mind, exploring the power of dreams and their ability to inspire and transform. Through imagery and thought-provoking verses, I hope this book encourages readers to explore their innermost desires, embrace their passions, and awaken their true potential. Drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature, the complexities of human emotions, and the mysteries of the universe, the poems in my new collection offer a unique blend of introspection and inspiration. With each turn of the page, I invited you to delve deeper into your dreams, discovering new perspectives and unlocking hidden truths. As the third installment in the Inspire Me Series, Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams promises to be a soul-stirring addition to any poetry collection.

As the new year begins, I am excited to share a glimpse of my upcoming book, “Inspire Me: Awakening Dreams.” Within its pages, you will find a collection of heartfelt poems, including one titled “Shade of Being.” This poem delves into the complexities of human existence, exploring the various shades from beginning to end that make up our being. “Shade of Being” is a reflection on my journey of self-discovery and the power of embracing our finite nature. For those who can’t wait to dive into my upcoming book, a sneak peek of “Shade of Being” can also be found in the “Inspire Me Series: Book 1 & 2.” Let this new year be a time of inspiration, growth, and awakening as we embark on a poetic journey together.

Shade of Being

I stand on the beach, absorbing the indigo sky. The whispering breeze surrounds and envelops me as I breathe. It cools the soul. The waves creep up and work with the sand to mold my feet on earth. The Sun’s desert colors—rays of light peak through the singing ocean waves, sounds of release and content. There I feel light, floating slowly over the water. I’m not afraid as I’m swept towards the light of eternal energy. The sea creatures do a singing infinity dance by my side. The sparkling eyes of these mammals transform my essence. I’m not alone. How long I have waited to go into the depths of the ocean where emotions ease life’s pains as they bathe the skin in harmony. No entanglements, no reins holding me. I turn to see my past and see the shadows of my family and friends holding onto the remaining essence of the sand encasing my life, my experience, the memorable existence of each footstep we walked together.

Inspire Me Series: Book 1 & 2 (Amazon)

Listen to episode here

January 28, 2024

2023 New Year Episode

Poetic Resurrection New Year's Episode This is late in posting but I still wanted to wish you a Happy New Year! As the year came to an end, I wanted to wish everyone an amazing New Year filled with love, joy, prosperity, and most importantly, good health. We often take our health for granted, but it truly is the foundation for enjoying life’s many blessings.

Amidst a global pandemic, I named this extended podcast season “Life,” using it as a tool for introspection and helping others do the same. But now, as we enter a new season, I plan to shift gears and focus solely on fictional literature. We will continue to showcase authors and poets and their creative processes, while also inviting literary agents, publishers, and editors to share their insights and educate us on the industry.

This year we had amazing guests and I want to say thank you to them.

Clicking on their name will take you to the podcast page or you can view all episodes here.

Bex Rose – Poet author of Health via Poetry.

Rocco Jarman – a Poet – author of Stepping Through, Philosopher and Podcaster.

Kevin Palmieri – Founder & Co-Host of Next Level University Podcast

Kelly Keefe – Creator of The Heartspace.co, and a Reiki Master Teacher.

Jim Marshall – Author of Septemics.

Rha Arayal – a nineteen-year-old British Nepali Poet – author of Encapsulated Emotions

Cindi Buckley – Author of Love Awakens You

Phyllis Leavitt – Psychotherapist and author of America in Therapy

Rachel Hanfling – Emmy Nominated Producer and Motivational Speaker

Barbara Ann Briggs – Poet and Author Pilgrimage on the Path of Love,

William Mackenzie-Smith – Medicinal Alchemist Healing

Tune in for the new season as it should not only be entertaining but educational.

Many blessings and Happy New Year.

January 28, 2024

Life with Bex Rose – Poet

It is our pleasure to have Bex Rose, Poet and Mental Health Professional, as a guest on the Poetic Resurrection Podcast in November 2023. She shared her poem called A Subconscious Mind, which talks about depression from her book Mental Health Via Poetry. We had a fascinating conversation about the poem and her personal story of growing up in Brooklyn, New York writing poetry with Tourette’s, then transitioning to become a mental health clinician. Tune into this touching and entertaining interview to learn more about Bex’s inspiring journey.

A Subconscious Mind

What are these thoughts
The if, and, why,
What is this feeling I get
As if I’m ripping apart from inside
Why has my internal drive
Become so weak
Why am I too depressed to even open my eyes
To even sit up and think
Can’t even make it to my own kitchen sink
Not even thirsty for a drink
It’s lawless
The pressure to be human
Eat, think, sleep like a person, it’s arduous
It is not involving the effects of any one single event
I wish my time could be better spent
Society’s pages depend on a therapy book
So quick to not even take a real look
So quick to hand us the bottle than to ask us how to spell out the name
I’m not so easy to belittle with labels
Each diagnosis on paper
Can become quite easily a fable
Remedied with quick-think drugs bought from any store and self-help label
Not knowing there’s also drugs on the corners underneath the table
Waiting
For us to crave more
Why do we have to think and be challenged to want to search for more
When we’re left un-adored
In majority, for the very same reason you referred us to get help in the first place
I am not a charity case
I will not just fall in line
I will make use of this time
As I tiptoe between the tattered line
Between each tear-stained work of mine
I speak
For others whose medication has rendered them mute and subconscious
How dare you try to band-aid depression as if it’s a rouse
I think rather that it’s abuse
To be this overlooked
Well I stand here let-loose
I will tell you with my rhymes
The enforced societal standard behind each bind
Left on the “mentally unequipped”
Considered Drones of the unkind
These vastly purged minds
It’s exhausting
Left unchecked it could be an easy departing
Why should I let that be the case too
I am as much a human being as are you
If I had a presumed fully capable mind and funds I guess I would sue
But you’d stay there thoughtless
Wondering how this mess started to involve you
Feeling targeted you alone
Truth oftentimes is that
You don’t even bother unless it happens to one of your own

Bex Rose is a born and raised Brooklynite and native New Yorker who is both openly gay and active in the social work community. As a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHC), Bex is a Program Director for a NYC based non-for-profit. She has a background in family focused evidence-based practices as well as upper leadership administrative management. Additionally, her work extends beyond community-based services and extends into her private practice – Candor’s Call for leadership development, coaching and consultation.

Despite a dysfunctional childhood and diagnosis of OCD and Tourette’s she has been able to cultivate success in her field and through many social media platforms. Her most recent book “Mental Health via Poetry” speaks to the duality of a role as a clinician and experience living with Tourette’s. Bex hopes to utilize social media platforms to continue promoting healthy conversations, collaborations and content around mental health, creativity and positive representation.

Listen to her episode here

Get her book: Mental Health via Poetry

https://linktr.ee/Bexrose

https://www.candorscall.com/

September 4, 2023

How to Write Spoken Word Poetry

how to write spoken word poetry Spoken word poetry is a powerful art form that can be used to express a wide range of emotions and ideas. It is a great way to connect with others and share your story. If you’re interested in writing spoken word poetry, here are a few tips about how to write spoken word poetry.

Start with a strong idea. What do you want to say with your poem? What is the message you want to convey? Once you have a strong idea, you can start to flesh it out.

Use vivid language. Spoken word poetry is all about creating a sensory experience for the audience. Use vivid language to paint pictures with your words. This will help your audience connect with your poem on a deeper level.

Be personal. Spoken word poetry is often most effective when it is personal. Share your own stories and experiences. This will make your poem more relatable and authentic.

Use rhythm and flow. Spoken word poetry is meant to be performed, so it’s important to pay attention to the rhythm and flow of your words. This will help your poem sound more natural and engaging.

Practice, practice, practice. The more you practice, the better you’ll become at writing and performing spoken word poetry. So get out there and start practicing!

Here are some additional tips about how to write spoken word poetry that are specific to the audience of Poetic Resurrection:

Write about diverse experiences. The audience of Poetic Resurrection is interested in hearing about diverse experiences. So if you have a story to tell, don’t be afraid to share it.

Be yourself. The audience of Poetic Resurrection wants to hear from real people. So be yourself and let your personality shine through in your poetry.

Be open to feedback. The audience of Poetic Resurrection is always willing to give feedback. So be open to hearing what they have to say about your poetry.

I hope these tips help you get started on your journey to writing spoken word poetry. Remember, the most important thing is to be yourself and to let your voice be heard.

Here are a few examples of spoken word poetry that you can check out:

These are just a few examples to get you started. There are many other great spoken word poets out there, so be sure to explore and find the ones who resonate with you.

Resources for Writing Spoken Word Poetry

Here are a few resources that can help you learn more about writing spoken word poetry:

Poetry Foundation

The Spoken Word Revolution: Slam, Hip Hop & the Poetry of a New Generation (A Poetry Speaks Experience)

Poetry Journal: A Slam Poetry Notebook for Poets, Spoken Word Slammers, & Lyrical Gurus: 120 Un-Lined Blank Pages for Inspired Creation (Songwriter Musician Series)

Take the Mic: The Art of Performance Poetry, Slam, and the Spoken Word (A Poetry Speaks Experience)

These resources can provide you with more information about the history of spoken word poetry, the different techniques used in spoken word poetry, and how to perform spoken word poetry.

Conclusion

Spoken word poetry is a powerful art form that can be used to express a wide range of emotions and ideas. If you’re interested in writing spoken word poetry, I encourage you to start today. Use the tips in this blog post and the resources I’ve provided to get you started. And most importantly, be yourself and let your voice be heard.

Check out the poetry section on Poetic Resurrection.