Poetry as Healing: How Haikus Led Me Back to Life
By Jocelyn Paige Kelly
Illustration by Jocelyn Paige Kelly/Canva
Life has a way of knocking us down when we least expect it. For me, it was a stroke and kidney failure, two events that completely upended my world. In an instant, everything I knew—my routine, my independence, my sense of self—was thrown into uncertainty. Recovery was overwhelming, both physically and emotionally. I felt lost, disconnected from my creative spirit, and unsure how to move forward.
Then, poetry found me again.
The Simplicity and Power of Haiku
At a time when my body was struggling and my mind felt clouded, I wasn’t capable of writing long, intricate verses or diving into deep creative projects. But I could manage something small. Something light. Something that challenged me without exhausting me.
Haiku.
A simple, structured form:
5 syllables.
7 syllables.
5 syllables.
Tiny puzzles of words. Small but powerful.
Writing My Way Back to Myself
At first, writing haikus was just a mental exercise, a way to engage my mind while my body was still healing. But soon, I realized it was more than that—it became a lifeline.
Each haiku forced me to be present, to focus on the moment rather than the uncertainty of my future. It reminded me that even in the midst of struggle, there was room for playfulness, creativity, and joy.
I started writing about everything around me:
The feeling of sunlight on my skin.
The steady hum of my dialysis machine.
The frustration and humor of hospital life.
Some haikus were hopeful:
The dawn feels softer,
whispering of second chance,
light spills through the blinds.
Some were frustrated and real:
Doctors poke and prod,
smiles tucked behind clipboards, white,
answers just guesses.
And some were just fun:
Kidneys gone on strike,
demanding better wages,
unionizing fast.
Poetry as Healing
Through haiku, I found my way back to poetry, and through poetry, I found my way back to myself. It reminded me that healing isn’t just about medications and treatments—it’s also about the soul, the spirit, the small joys that keep us moving forward.
Poetry became my medicine, my meditation, my escape. It allowed me to laugh, process, and reflect, even on the hardest days. It showed me that creativity doesn’t have to be grand or perfect to be powerful—sometimes, just seventeen syllables can save you.
Final Thoughts
Healing comes in many forms, and for me, poetry was one of the most unexpected and profound. Writing haikus reignited my love for words, helped me cope with my reality, and reminded me that even in the toughest times, I could still create.
If you’re going through your own battles, I encourage you to find something—no matter how small—that brings you joy. Maybe it’s poetry. Maybe it’s painting, music, or journaling. Whatever it is, let it guide you back to yourself.
Because sometimes, in just a few words, you can find a whole new way forward.
Jocelyn Paige Kelly is a poet, astrologer, and creative author of imaginative activity and coloring books for kids and adults. Blending storytelling, art, and interactive learning, her books inspire creativity, spark joy, and offer meaningful, screen-free entertainment. Her work ranges from whimsical coloring books and brain-boosting puzzles to zodiac-inspired designs and magical seasonal themes. Every page reflects her love for poetry, symbolism, and the magic found in everyday life. Jocelyn draws inspiration from nature, folklore, and the stars—infusing her creations with heart, wonder, and a touch of cosmic wisdom. Follow Jocelyn at CosmicInsightsVegas for book releases, poetry, and creative tools to inspire all ages.