Have you ever tried journaling for good health? For those of you who are not familiar with the term journaling, here is the definition:
Journaling is a record of experiences, ideas, or reflections kept regularly for private use (diary).
When you decide to do some journaling, make sure to start with the date and start with small talk. If you are stuck, just ask yourself a question to get started. For example, “what was the best thing that happened this week”?
Journaling Tips:
1. Slow down and write down how you really feel – Be realistic, be honest and hold yourself accountable
2. Journaling is a life worth living – Personal journey – Your life’s story
3. Journaling is time for reflection and to find out who you are
4. Journaling offers you an opportunity to leave a written legacy to those around you
5. Giving yourself balance – putting everything on paper to get it out of your heart and mind
Journaling is a way to express yourself on paper. There’s no right or wrong way to do it. Just write. Write all the time no matter where you are. Write yourself out of creative blocks. Write even if it’s complete garbage in your opinion. Just don’t stop writing. It’s important to write what you want to write. Not what others expect you to write. Don’t let people’s opinions shape your first draft. Remember, this is your personal journaling experience so what are you waiting for? Let’s get journaling for good health!
Journal Prompts:
Mind
Write down everything in life that gives you pleasure or joy.
What in my life makes me feel alive and energized?
What are your successes and struggles?
Body
Dear body, I love you because…
When I look in the mirror, I feel…
How do I connect food with my body?
Spirit
What do I need more of in my life?
What words do I wish someone would say to me right now?
How can I give that to myself today…this week…this month…this year?
Quote:
Write what disturbs you, what you fear, what you have not been willing to speak about. Be willing to be split open. -Natalie Goldberg
Since I left for vacation I have not had the time to do my journaling even though I brought my bag of supplies all with me. I have been busy marching to everyone else’s drums and that has made me feel very rushed. I hate how that feels. It leaves me feeling unbalanced.
I truly understand how you feel not being able to do your journaling. Journaling allows one to express themselves in a safe place and gives one a sense of balance throughout life. Good luck to you my friend and happy journaling!
I am on and off again with the diary or journal. When I sit with a pen and paper in hand- I just stare at the blank page and clam up. Maybe I should consider changing the atmosphere where I do the main part of keeping my now and again journal? I sit in bed, crossed leg and try to write there at the end of the day right before bed…. That to me does not work- so new plan, new system…
Jennifer, please let me give you some journal writing suggestions. First, remember that you are writing how you feel or what you are thinking. There is no wrong or right way. Just write. Second, your environment is very important. Try setting the mood with inspirational or soothing music. Maybe sit near a window and reflect on nature. Third, maybe try writing after you meditate or read an inspirational book. Journal writing can be anything you want. Sometimes I don’t write anything but a scripture or a positive thought. Allow yourself to be free and to express yourself with no boundaries. Talk to you soon!