If you haven’t written “Dear Diary” since you were a youngster, it might be time to whip out the ol’ journal and get scribbling. Research has found that journaling not only improves your wellbeing, it can also help you cope with a range of anxieties, disorders and diseases.
Why Write?
Whether you jot down your thoughts for a few minutes a day, or only journal a few times a week, journaling allows you to reflect on your life and put things in perspective.
Here are a few other great reasons to put pen to paper:
- Release emotions: Dr Joshua Smyth, who co-authored ‘The Writing Cure’, says that expressive writing can help relieve stress, anger and even guilt. While these feelings can impact on your body’s ability to heal itself, writing helps minimise stress hormones.
- Cope with illness: A study published in the US Journal of Health Psychology found that personal writing can help reduce blood pressure. Another study in 2006 found that it can help people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis fight fatigue.
- Improve your mind: Numerous studies have pointed to personal writing as a way to improve cognitive functioning. By recording your thoughts, the day’s events or your future plans, you stimulate the brain and improve its function.
- Have better relationships: As writing can help you understand yourself better, it puts you in good stead to understand those around you. In this way, you may find it easier to solve conflicts and relate to others.
Top Tips for Expressive Writing
So now you know why you should write, you might be wondering how to get started. Here are a few easy ways to get writing:
- Don’t worry: Try not to censor yourself when you write. Just get the words down on the page without reading over it.
- Be honest: Remember that you’re writing to help yourself, so don’t be afraid to be honest about how you feel and what you’ve experienced.
- Write for yourself: You’ll get the most benefits from writing if you write for yourself. If you want to share your prose with others, show it to a loved one who won’t judge your writing.
- Write, then reflect: Author Sharon Bray suggests spending 20 to 30 minutes writing, and then another 20 or so minutes reflecting on what you’ve noted. This can help you understand your thought patterns and emotions.
