Journaling helps to identify problemIndeed, journaling is currently used across the globe in many settings in which greater self-awareness can be of aid. These include drug rehabilitation, and therapy for those suffering for everything from anxiety to depression and even posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Therapists often encourage patients to keep a journal to help them see how their thoughts, behaviours and feelings towards events and people, are interrelated. Journals can help us identify the triggers for anger, anxiety and other emotions, highlighting the type of situations or comments which provoke specific emotions and thoughts. We can use our journal to frame a strategy to deal with these difficult thoughts and emotions in more positive ways. Benefits of keeping a journalThere are many more benefits to keeping a journal; these include improving our ability to express ourselves, increasing our creativity, helping us organise thoughts and feelings and reducing stress. Indeed, those who keep a journal often look forward to that quiet time during the day when they are alone with their pen and paper (or, indeed, computer), and they can analyse how they reacted to the most important events of the day. Many people use a journal to set goals; bigger goals can be broken up into chunks and at the end of the day, writers can note down the extent to which they are achieving set targets. Journals can also help us prioritize our problems and fears, and help us track symptoms of issues like anxiety and depression, on a daily basis.
Types of journalsIf you are interested in taking up journaling as an aid, try to decide which type of journal will help you the most:
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Meditation and yoga are holistic activities that can further aid rehabilitation and
recovery, in addition to their body and mind healing benefits. |
It is recommended that you set aside a specific time to write, and stick to a schedule (whether you choose to journal daily, or every other day). Find your favourite nook in your home, one in which neither family nor the television or sound system will interfere with your train of thought. Make this space as special as you can – you may decide to decorate it with lights, or listen to relaxing music.
Try to write for at least half an hour. Throughout the day, use your phone or a small book to jot down events and thoughts you may otherwise forget. Every few weeks, review your journal to note the progress you have made.
Journaling is a self-reflective activity that can be aided by other activities that de-stress and put you in a mindful state. These include meditation and yoga, two holistic activities which are powerful stress busters.
Controlled breathing is also ideal before writing. There are a host of free apps for your phone, tablet or computer, which will take you through short but effective breathing sessions. Start off simply then increase the number of seconds that you inhale and exhale. Controlled breathing will rid your mind and body of anxiety and increase our ability to concentrate on what you wish to write down.
Additionally, try to spend time in nature regularly, to relax you and allow your deeper thoughts to emerge. Once in a while, try to write outdoors and avail of the peace and serenity which are unique to the Great Outdoors.
Site last updated: 12. January 2021
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