Why journaling is one of the most healing things you can do

Ever since childhood, I've had moments where I've doubted my worth and abilities as an individual while navigating the world. Once I started to immerse myself in books, it opened up a whole new world of communication. This ended up transitioning into writing book summaries and jotting my thoughts down. As I got older - and acquired more responsibilities - I started having less time to write for myself.

Noticing the longing in my eyes to express myself for some time, my boyfriend gifted me a journaling book titled The Story of My Life on Christmas Day of 2019. There are guided writing prompts within each journal page to help you chronicle your upbringing, family history, passions, and fondest memories. I realized how cathartic and joyous this made me feel, so I decided to make it a point to write at least one prompt a day. To say this form of journaling has helped my mindset improve is an understatement— it's transformed my life for the absolute better.

How is that, you may ask?

Within research, there has been evidence to suggest the health benefits of writing what is on your mind. This research indicates that journaling has provided a positive impact on asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and the overall physical wellbeing of people. From this, I realized that writing about events that have caused a lot of stress can help many overcome those feelings because it allows us to come to terms with the outcomes of situations. It's essentially a stress management tool to improve physical health.

I know what you may be thinking. How can writing down a couple of sentences a day help me be less stressed in the long run? Why would I journal when I don't have the time? The next series of facts may convince you otherwise.

The very act of writing accesses the left side of your brain, which is the analytical and rational side. Understanding the brain's left side is occupied, its right side is free to create uninhibited. Writing essentially helps to remove mental blocks to allow your mind to understand yourself and the world around you. Here are some other examples of the benefits of journaling:

black twist pen near white teacup Photo by Freddy Castro on Unsplash

Understand who you are

When you write routinely, you start to get a sense of what makes you feel your best. You also begin to sense what people and situations you were accustomed to don't serve you anymore.

Effective problem solving

Typically, we solve problems with the left side of our brain, a more analytical perspective. However, some issues can be solved by using our intuition and creative abilities. Writing unleashes these abilities and creates opportunities for unexpected solutions to problems deemed complicated to solve.

Reduces stress

Writing about feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, and other feelings diffuse these emotions' intensity. Eventually, you'll feel calm, cool, collected, and in the present moment.

Resolve conflicts with others

Writing about arguments or misunderstandings rather than disregarding them will help you understand your perspective and other perspectives.

Come to terms with thoughts and feelings

Have you ever felt your thoughts were clouded? Taking some time (it's recommended that you write for 15 to 20 minutes) to write down your emotions. Not only will this help you pour out your deepest feelings, it enables you to get in touch with your subconscious.

Keeping a journal helps you track your improvement as an individual, understanding specific behavior patterns, and overall growth over time. When circumstances arise that seem virtually impossible to eradicate, you'll be able to look back and reflect on the obstacles and how you have resolved them.

As you continue to write, you will begin to realize your journal is an accepting and encouraging friend free of judgment. Also, this may provide you with the most cost-efficient form of therapy, all at your fingertips. So grab a notebook, a cup of tea, and your favorite pen, letting your thoughts pour onto the pages.

If you are interested in getting a guided Journal such as The Story of My Life, check it out here.