Terese, Michael, Maz, et al: Yes, Rita does appear to be sickeningly self-involved. And the notion of taking time out of the WCU conference to go ice skating IS problematic, especially when the conference is so expensive.
But, aside from narcissism, I think Rita may have a teeny, tiny little point in suggesting that people think about some physical form of artistry in conjunction with poetry. Dancing, ice skating, gymnastics, singing, playing an instrument, painting, etc.: all are physical acts that can help (some of) us calm our minds and improve our writing. That's why I do it. Laugh all you want!
(But maybe I won't put an ice skating video on my website after all
)
Chris: On second thought, just being in Florence may also have the effects described above!