You might not realize it, but keeping a journal can be one of the best things you do for your well-being. Journaling has many advantages, from lowering stress levels to helping you understand yourself better. As Lisann Valentin, a Shamanic life coach, puts it, “Journaling is mindfulness in motion.” It helps you see the valuable aspects of your life that you might miss otherwise.
1. Reduces Stress
Writing down your thoughts can help relieve stress. Dr. Amy Hoyt, founder of Mending Trauma, mentions that journaling acts like a pressure valve when you feel overwhelmed. Studies back this up, showing that simple exercises like listing things you're grateful for can help reduce stress significantly.
2. Boosts Overall Health
Putting your thoughts and feelings into words can lead to fewer stress-related health problems, lower blood pressure, and a better mood. Research shows that writing about positive experiences can make you feel less distressed and improve your general well-being.
3. Puts Distance Between You and Negative Thoughts
When negative thoughts arise, writing them down can help you see them more clearly and objectively. This practice, known as cognitive defusion, helps you realize that you are not your thoughts, reducing their power over you.
4. Helps Process Emotions
Journaling creates a supportive environment where you can dig into your feelings. . Naming and accepting your feelings can reduce their intensity, making them easier to manage and preventing them from unexpectedly influencing your actions.
5. Clarifies Decision Making
Writing about your feelings and thoughts regarding a situation can help you figure out what to do next. Seeing your concerns and emotions laid out on paper can provide clarity and help you make better decisions. Even a simple pros and cons list can be helpful.
6. Encourages Self-Discovery
Journaling allows you to reconnect with yourself and understand your evolving thoughts, fears, and dreams. It gives you a moment to pause and reflect on who you are and what you want from life.
How to Start Journaling
1. Start Small: Begin by writing for just one or two minutes each day to build the habit.
2. Keep It Simple: Use whatever method is easiest for you, whether it’s a notebook, a laptop, or a note-taking app on your phone.
3. Free Write: Let your thoughts flow without worrying about grammar or structure.
4. Create a Routine: Tie your journaling practice to an existing habit, like having your morning coffee or winding down before bed.
5. Use Prompts : If you’re unsure what to write about, prompts can help spark your creativity and guide your writing.
Journaling is a powerful tool for reducing stress, improving your well-being, and discovering more about yourself. By starting small and keeping it simple, you can develop a rewarding habit that brings clarity and peace into your life.