What is Journaling?

According to Cambridge Dictionary a journal is “a written record of what you have done each day, sometimes including your private thoughts and feelings.”

There are many different types of journals depending on your interests: like art, travelling, dreams, food, music, plants, gratitude and bullet journaling to name a few.

I’ve been writing from as far back as I can remember. When I was in Primary School they would have book fairs. I used to love them. The sight and smell of new books! 😍 Well I always had my eye of the Filofax for kids which was called a Funfax. That was my introduction into having an organiser/diary.

Since then I have always had one.

Writing down to-do lists, how my day unfolded, my thoughts, feelings and aspirations. I’ve found the practice very comforting especially when I’m going through a tough time. It was (and still is) a safe space for me to express myself and be vulnerable without any kick back from anyone. As well as expressing gratitude or joy when something amazing’s happened or things just going good; I can also have a good bitch and a moan too.

I love journaling for clarity, healing and creativity. I’ve had so many a-ha! moments while writing allowing my thoughts to flow without judgement. Ideas, realisations, truths hitting and lightbulbs illuminating things clearly. Its truly a rewarding practice that I don’t think I will ever give it up. Life is full of highs and lows and humans are complex by nature; journaling is the perfect companion to assist us on our journeys and maintaining self-awareness.

First things first: get a journal

Now you don’t need to be fancy. A standard , regular exercise book of your choice is up to you. You can get them cheap enough at poundland, B&Ms, Home Bargains (you catch my drift) This is your journal so you can style it however you want or you can keep it plain jane. Again, your choice. Have a look online for ideas and inspiration. I have been journaling for a while so If I see a journal that costs a little more expensive I am more likely to go for it because I already know the value journaling brings to me; it adds to the experience writing in a lovely book that’s your favourite colour or has a gorgeous design. Another encouraging reason enticing you to get writing!

And just so I don’t run out I always pick them up if I see them on my travels because I like to have them in stock and on hand when I need a new one.

If you are talented in poetry, lyrics, art, drawing or doodling, add that to your journaling too! I’m so excited for you to get started!

The benefits

• Brings clarity
• Assists with emotional health and well-being
• Improves mood & boosts memory
• Reduces stress and anxiety
• Outlet for negative thoughts and feelings
• Assists in Healing
• Helps with problem solving
• Helps to highlight and understand your triggers
• Helps to see patterns of thoughts and behaviours
• Improves understanding and relationship with self and others
• Assists in making improvements in your life
• Assists with ideas and creativity
• Helps to plan for your future & track goals
• Plus more!

ok, so why you telling me this again?

As if the list of benefits weren’t enough!
I’m a massive fan of writing. It’s therapeutic, mindful and I believe everyone can benefit from this practice. It’s a way of bringing you back to your center, a place of exploration, discovery, focus and clarity. Some days you will only have a couple of lines in you; other days you will have pages. Either way is better than nothing. Once you start, stay consistent and start seeing how it benefits you personally, you’re more likely to stick with it.

3 journal prompts to get you started

• what does success look like to you?
• where would you like to see yourself in 3, 6, 9, or 12 months time and how will you go about making it happen?
• what thoughts or emotions are you avoiding and why?

HAPPY JOURNALING!