I’m still absolutely amazed by the benefits of journaling. But if you’re like me, you need some help and a little nudge to get started. SO, I invite you, my other non-journaling friends, to join me in the mind and body benefits. These ideas have really helped me get going:
1- Use a journal or notebook that fits you: colorful to make you smile, classy to capture your life, small so you can keep it handy, etc.
2- Find pen(s) you love–color keeps me more engaged and makes me happy
3- Jot down some thoughts in bullet-point format
- Meaningful (or rough) moments during the day
- Feelings
- Goals
- Dreams
- Prayers
- Inspirational thoughts
- Insights
- and so much more
4- Don’t get overwhelmed by pressures of traditional journaling to write full, complete, punctuated sentences. Just start getting your thoughts out there. You might just be surprised that sometimes full sentences just start coming…rather easily.
5- Any form of documenting and written expression helps! I love my Notes app on my phone, but I’m discovering “they” are right. Writing by hand is especially helpful for learning, as it sends signals between the hands and brain to build motor memory. Don’t worry, I’m not giving up my app just yet! So, if it helps you get started, go for it!
6- Have fun with it! No pressure. This isn’t for anyone else but you!
Are you an expert journaler? I’d love to hear your stories! …and please do share the helpful, healthful tips with friends and family.
