I've recently started keeping a journal (a bullet journal, to be exact), and I'm excited to share with you what I've learned.
The act of keeping a journal has stereotypically been practiced for ages by teenage girls and avid writers, but mental health experts agree that we all can benefit by writing down our thought. Some of you will feel a ton of pressure at the thought of keeping a journal, but the science is clear.
Journaling can help you:
*reduce stress
*manage anxiety and depression
*provide a "mind dump" to clear your mind
*get organized
*in lots of physical ways, too, like decreasing blood pressure and boosting immunity
Perfectionists tend to get caught up in what the journal looks like and how neatly each page looks. We can also get caught up in how much we should write and that it should be every day. There are actually many right ways to journal, and allowing for things to be imperfect is key.
By writing down our thoughts, whether in an orderly or disorderly fashion, we free up our brain to think more clearly, be more present.
No matter what your handwriting ability or time allotment, there is a journaling method for you.
Among the types of journaling are the following:
*Gratitude Journal (ex. write 3 things you are grateful for each day)
Gratitude Journal
*Free Writing (ex., set a timer for 5 minutes and just write whatever comes to mind) The Magic of Free Writing
*Morning Pages (ex., write three pages of longhand thoughts to clear the mind for the day) Morning Pages
*Keep a specific focus (ex., a food journal, an exercise log, including thoughts and feelings) How to Keep a Food Journal Without Losing Your Mind
*Bullet Journaling (my personal favorite-- short and sweet, organized and concise) Bullet Journaling
It might take several tries at different methods before you find one that works for you. Keep at it, the benefits are worth it.
Here are some more articles on journaling for your reading pleasure:
The Benefits of Journaling for Stress Management
What's All This About Journaling?
How Journaling Can Help You Heal
28 Ways Keeping a Daily Journal Could Change Your Life
Get that pen and paper ready!!
Always yours in health,
