I’m Amanda Saint, a published author, contemplative teacher, and mentor whose work combines creative practice and inner life. Through The Mindful Writer, I support people to develop a sustainable, heart-led relationship with mindfulness and writing — rooted in self-enquiry and somatic awareness rather than productivity or performance.

My programmes include the Year of Mindful Writing, Writing the Bardo, which is a six-month gathering weaving Yoga Nidra with contemplative writing, and journalling courses: From Limiting Beliefs to Limitless Self; Cultivating Self-Compassion; and Ageing Gratefully. I also teach meditation and writing practices on Insight Timer.

My approach draws on Buddhist, Taoist, Vedic, and somatic and energy teachings, supported by my own ongoing contemplative practice — which includes daily meditation, yoga, and Reiki. I hold Diplomas in Meditation Teaching and Journal Therapy (both Distinction, CMA accredited); am a certified Mindfulness Mentor, having studied with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield; am a certified Yoga Nidra Teacher, and Level 1 Usui Holy Fire III Reiki practitioner, currently completing Level 2.

As a writer, I’m the author of two novels and a novella-in-flash, and I ran Retreat West — an award-winning independent literary press — for thirteen years before founding WestWord, a literary magazine and press with a commitment to social purpose publishing. I understand from the inside what it means to live a creative and mindful life, and I bring that lived experience to everything I teach.

I work entirely online and am available to anyone, anywhere in the world, who wants to explore mindfulness, meditation and contemplative and creative writing as a meditative practice — including those who think it might not be for them.