The Benefits of Journaling
There are many different benefits to journaling beyond being a relaxing self-care hobby. Here’s why we think everyone should start a journaling practice:
Have you ever felt confused by your own thoughts? Were you ever bothered by something or someone, but not sure why? Struggled to get over a particular grudge or issue no matter how much you tried? In these cases, something is likely lurking beneath the surface. And journaling is the perfect solution! Journaling helps you clarify your thoughts and emotions so you can overcome issues, reach your goals, and enjoy healthier relationships.
General journal writing or guided writing prompts can help you focus on what really matters in your life. You can use these exercises to work towards a new goal, understand your deeper motivations, and tap into your true self.
Identify your blockages or behavior patterns.
Journaling helps you collect evidence on yourself. After a few weeks of journaling, you’ll likely notice that the same issues, themes, or habits come up in your thoughts. By writing it down, you’re more likely to identify these blockages, acknowledge them, and find ways to overcome them.
Stress is a fact of life, but how we manage it makes all the difference. Without healthy outlets for our stress, the constant tension creates imbalances in our mental, emotional, and physical health.
Thankfully, journaling can help to reduce our daily stress and support the mind-body. How? Journaling gives us the power to release our pent-up emotions, fears, and triggers from our minds and bodies and onto the page. When we write down the thoughts that trouble us, we often realize these issues are not so big and can overcome them more easily.
Science even proves it! Studies show that a daily journaling habit is linked to lower blood pressure, less stress, and reduced anxiety.
Can writing improve your immune health? Researchers say yes! Those who practice expressive writing have higher-functioning immune systems and a lower risk of immune disease than those who do not. Journaling has also been shown to improve lung function, liver function, and overall well-being.
A healthy brain is essential for healthy aging. Journaling can help! This simple practice helps keep your memory sharp and improve your learning ability, focus, cognitive processing, and more.