I’m a huge advocate for journaling because it can have a positive impact on our mental health. Whether you’re venting, setting goals, or repeating positive affirmations, the benefits of writing in a journal are proven to relieve anxiety.
I learned about this activity when I saw a therapist and I’m glad she recommended it. Sometimes, I allow my emotions to build up by holding in how I feel, however, doing that has never worked out for me.
I’ve always ended up taking my frustrations out on the wrong person or ended up emotionally burnt out — I was tired of repeating the same outcome.
My journal is a safe space to pour out my emotions. I don’t have to worry about being judged or misunderstood! Writing down my thoughts feels good and I know it can help you too.
In this post, I’m sharing 5 benefits of writing in a journal and why it should be a regular step in your wellness routine.
Whether you decide to use a digital journal or buy one, you’ll notice a difference in your mental health.
Disclaimer: I’m not a professional, I’m sharing what has worked the best for me. Make sure you always consult with your doctor or a professional if you need guidance.
Benefits of Writing in a Journal
Journaling is Relaxing
One of the first benefits of writing in a journal is it can help you relax. Writing out your thoughts can release the stress you’ve been holding on to.
Whenever I hold back how I feel, it’s mentally draining and causes a lot of tension. However, writing down how I feel relaxes my mind and helps me realize I’ll be okay!
Journaling is a great way to unwind from a long, hectic day. Whether you do it for 10 minutes or longer, it’ll help you feel better.
Related Post: How to Manage Anxiety and Depression Like a Pro!
Improves Your Mood
You don’t always have to talk about your problems — you can also write down what you’re grateful for which can boost your happiness.
When we’re going through challenges, it can be easy to forget about the blessings we already have around us.
Writing down what you’re thankful for will remind you that you have great things happening and it’s an opportunity to manifest more! Practicing gratitude can push away fear, negative thinking, and stress.
Make time every day to write down a few things you’re thankful for, it doesn’t have to be different all of the time. As long as it reminds you of something you value, you should write it down!
Here are some examples:
- I’m grateful for having a roof over my head, clothes on my back, and food on the table.
- I love being able to work from home and do something I’m passionate about every day.
- I’m thankful for the genuine friendships I’ve developed in my life.
Journaling Resolves Problems
Have you ever been frustrated and weren’t sure where those feelings came from?
Journaling can help you find answers to unresolved problems. Sometimes, when we write down how we feel, we can pinpoint the main issue and figure out ways to fix it.
When I left a toxic relationship years ago, writing in a journal helped me realize that I had unresolved issues that I had to handle within myself. One of those things was forgiveness.
Holding on to resentment can weigh you down. As I continued to write, I realized that I had to learn how to forgive myself for tolerating the way I was treated. Once I found that out, I worked on it with my therapist and behind the scenes.
No matter what you’re dealing with, journaling will help you find a resolution.
Related Post: How to Get Rid of Negative Thoughts and Emotions
Helps You Achieve Goals
Besides keeping track of your emotions and things you’re grateful for, journaling can help you achieve your short + long-term goals.
Writing down goals you want to accomplish can help improve your productivity and keep you focused.
When you have something to look forward to and work on, this can improve your mood and show you have a lot going for yourself!
It’s encouraging to see your goals written down! It gives you the motivation to work on them every day.
Reduces Negative Thoughts
The last benefit of writing in a journal is it helps you challenge negative thoughts.
My therapist helped me realize that most of the time, our negative thoughts are exaggerated and don’t make sense. When you notice negativity popping up, you want to put a stop to it and replace it with something positive.
Another thing I recommend writing in your journal is positive affirmations. Affirmations are powerful statements that can reduce negative thinking and help you manifest the desired results.
It’s all about taking control of your mind and using these statements to bring you back to reality.
Here are examples of positive affirmations:
- I’m in charge of how I feel and I choose happiness + inner peace.
- I’m more than enough.
- I let go of all negative energy that no longer serves me.
- I deserve nothing but the best and that’s all I’ll accept.
Creating a wellness routine that includes journaling is a great way to combat stress, anxiety, and depression.
Take some time to write each day to improve your overall well-being so you can become your best self!
2 Comments
Recently, I felt like my day goes by in an instant, and my head seems to be in another place, so I think my life needs some organizing. I liked what you mentioned about writing in a journal and how it could help us keep better track of our mental health and goals, so I think it wouldn’t hurt to try this now. I appreciate your insight on how to improve our focus and productivity levels.
Thank you so much! Journaling has been a game changer for me so I’m sure it’ll help you a lot.