As we move through this new year, many of us search for ways to improve the way we feel physically, emotionally, and mentally. Journaling is one new habit that can bring great insight. The benefits of journaling can be countless.
Journaling can help you tap into important introspection to process a day, or dramatic events, conflict, or dilemmas. It can provide the place to interpret life with perhaps more focus and intent. It gives us an opportunity to reflect, offering an outlet to reduce stress. It allows for greater creativity. Journaling can give us some clear direction, as well as helping to release pent-up stress and emotions.
Research has shown other positive health benefits that come from journaling. Studies demonstrate that writing about painful or traumatic events can lessen their impact and help emotional and physical recovery. They have found a positive correlation between how the mind and body processes trauma when a person takes time to write and express emotions. Developing a consistent habit of journaling and expressive writing can also help the mind and body adapt to stressors. Handling certain stressors through writing can dull the intensity of your emotional reactions. Therefore, it can decrease the emotional triggers in asthma, arthritis, and other health conditions, improve cognitive function, and strengthen the immune system, counteracting the negative effects of stress.
All you need is pen and paper. There are no rules and no guidelines to journaling. Let this be a time for you to take a moment for yourself and reflect. Write what comes to mind, spending 5 minutes or 20 minutes–whatever time you have.
May this year be filled with more insight, understanding, and a happier, healthier you.
Contributor:
Acupuncturist, herbalist, Maya abdominal practitioner, and reflexologist Christina Morris is the founder of Element Natural Healing Arts. Writing about health and wellness gives her an outlet to express her care and concern for her beloved community. She believes everyone can achieve better health and happiness–emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.