631: Journaling practices to clear your mind and ease anxiety
This week on the Anxiety Slayer podcast, we’re responding to a question from our private Facebook Group about journaling: “I’ve never journaled before and would like to try it. What do you write and how do I start?”
Our theme this month has been proactivity and self-discovery, taking steps in healing and learning what works for you. In this conversation we’ll be talking about different journaling practices and their benefits. We both journal and we’ll talk about our personal practices too.
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Notes from this week’s episode:
Personal reflections:
Why are you drawn to journaling?
Are you looking to express and clear your thoughts?
Or record gratitudes and inspirations?
Would you like to journal creatively?
There are no rules, you can do any or all of these, the only guide is to pick what appeals to you and make a start.
“People usually don’t talk about emotional upheavals because they fear the reactions of others. The purpose of expressive writing is for you to be completely honest and open with yourself. Your audience is you and you alone. Studies have shown that when people disclose a trauma to someone they don’t know or trust, they hold back — and don’t show benefits.”
The safety of writing
Writing is safe because there’s no risk of judgement or bypassing. Talking to the right person can be the best medicine, but opening up to someone who doesn’t understand can cause more harm.
Writing helps us express our emotions, we can externalise our thoughts, but privately. And then we get to choose what we do with our words next. We can keep them somewhere safe, or burn them and release your thoughts.
“The opposite of depression is expression. What comes out of you doesn’t make you sick; what stays in there does.” ― Edith Eger author or The Choice and The Gift
Journaling as a step to healing
Discussion points:
Gaining clarity before reaching out for help
Revisiting for deeper insights
Helping us process experiences and emotions
Recommend reading:
Expressive Writing: Words that Heal By James Pennebaker
If you’re distressed about something, Dr. Pennebaker advises, set aside three to four days to write for 15 to 20 minutes a day about it.
The Artists Way by Julia Cameron
Anyone who faithfully writes morning pages will be led to a connection with a source of wisdom within. When I am stuck with a painful situation or problem that I don't think I know how to handle, I will go to the pages and ask for guidance.” - Julia Cameron
GO DEEPER WITH THE HEALING PRACTICE OF JOURNALING
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