Life can be tough.  So, what can you do to deal with life’s challenges? Tap into the benefits of writing therapy.

WRITING IS HEALTHY

A health report from Harvard Medical School highlights how writing about grief and loss can boost your immune system, and improve your mood and well-being. Holding in your feelings can cause stress, increased heart rate, and muscle tension.

One thing to note is writing is not a substitute for professional therapy.  When dealing with sudden death or violence, you may need to talk to a therapist.

BENEFITS OF JOURNALING

Journaling (see also ‘What Is A Junk Journal?‘) is one form of writing therapy which allows you to express your feelings on paper.  Here’s how to get the most out of your journaling.

• Select a journal that transports easily and allows you to write in places outside your home.
• Designate your journal as a safe space where you are free to explore your feelings.
• Use reflective journaling (see also ‘What Are the Best Pens For Journaling?‘) to record events as they happen and to apply critical thinking and self-reflection.
• Through expressive journaling (see also our favorite journalling supplies), reflect on changes affecting you or your workplace. Write about what you like and don’t like.
• Consider gratitude journaling to highlight your gratitude for the people and things that you appreciate.

Journaling is not the only way to do writing therapy (see also ‘How To Change Your Handwriting‘). However, it is an effective way to process your feelings as you go through changes in your life.

Embrace journaling to deal with your thoughts on change.

READY FOR CHANGE?

If you’re already familiar with the benefits of writing therapy, you may be ready to  write your first book.  If so, check out my 10 Steps to Writing a Nonfiction Book.

Karen is a Lean Six Sigma-driven communicator, writer, and entrepreneur with more than 25 years of experience in public relations, corporate and marketing communications. Karen used journal writing to complete her book, Time to Refresh:  A 21-Day Devotional to Renew Your Mind After Being Laid Off, Fired or Sidelined.