Over the years I have kept all sorts of journals. I even keep notes on an app on my phone. There are a few great apps you can use for writing as well but I prefer old school. So Why should you Journal?
Stress Release
Journaling is super therapeutic. Putting all your thoughts onto paper, not only gets them out of your head but when you look at it visually you are able to make sense of them. You can release negative thoughts and emotions by writing them down. If you just write your thoughts as they come to your head, at first it may make no sense and feel strange but it is incredible the moment when all your thoughts just flow and come together.
“There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.” Maya Angelou
Self Reflection
When you write, you enable self-awareness and self-reflection. You can look back at previous works and realise your own strength and resilience as you overcame situations that you never thought you could. A journal is a safe place you can be truly honest with yourself! You can set new goals and dream new dreams. Psychologists often encourage their patients to keep a journal. Those with anxiety can jot down their worries and emotions. It can be a highly beneficial tool for those of us with mental health issues.
“Unless you learn to face your own shadows, you will continue to see them in others, because the world outside you is only a reflection of the world inside you.” Carl Jung
Inspire Creativity
When you sit down to brainstorm ideas, it’s wonderful what inspiration flows. You can keep many types of journals. This is the best part, all the fun stationery! I’m addicted to buying Notebooks and coloured pens…. Ok back to the types of journals;
- a diary or to-do list
- a poetry journal
- a dream journal
- a travel journal
- a food journal
- a fitness journal
- an art journal!
“Creativity doesn’t wait for that perfect moment. It fashions its own perfect moments out of ordinary ones.” Bruce Garrabrandt
Personally, I love mixed media art journalling, I have a few of those now and love the process of creating and expressing. Random thoughts to paper have become poems. I haven’t always felt comfortable sharing them. It’s very raw, real and vulnerable to share poetry and emotions. Each one has a story. The first poem was a result of a breakdown I had a few years ago. I’m all about love and being real so I finally feel OK with publishing my anthology of poems. I mixed the poetry with a few prompts to help you on your own Journaling journey.
Do you Journal? is available on Amazon Kindle.
One thought on “Do you Journal? 3 Basic Reasons To Start”