Writing is therapy for so many of us. It is just a fact that some do better with pouring out on pen and paper than to another person. It is like you are talking over something with yourself through the medium of pen and paper. For many this just works better for processing their thoughts and emotions. This is not to say human connection is not important. In fact, one of the positive aspects of 2020 is that it has really driven home to many the importance of having people in our lives to connect to and how unhealthy isolation is. But there is always a balance to be sought. And having that special place to write and sort things out with yourself provides immense benefits.

Of the many benefits of writing one is that it helps you think through an issue and see it on paper. Things look different when written down and give us a new perspective. Additionally, writing helps us vent which can help ease our emotions. Writing can also be good for depression or managing our stress. And how about stimulating your mindfulness and emotional intelligence while you are at it?

However, journaling can have negative effects as well. The potential to stay in your own heads and feed the negativism is a real concern. It is hardly beneficial to keep writing about problems or negative thoughts and do nothing about it. One of the tricks to keeping journalism a healthy activity is to be proactive with it as opposed to saturating in it. Look for solutions and analyze your problems. Ask yourself hard questions and challenge yourself.

A Place to write

“Journaling helps you harness your emotions, whether you’re trying to release anxiety, find clarity or practice gratitude. When you do this regularly, you’re better equipped to build resilience and be more present in your life.”

Julia Dellitt, author of Get Your Life Together (ish) and Self-Care for College Students

So, do you have a place to cozy up with a journal and write? Is there a special area that inspires you to sit down with a journal and pen? It is okay if you don’t. It is also okay to like writing in many different places. However, for many having a cozy area at home is a good place to start. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a spot to journal:

Find a part of the house that doesn’t see much traffic. It goes without saying that it is distracting to have a lot of people in the room. Try to find a private corner or nook.

Make sure it is comfy. Comfy is different for everyone but find your idea of comfy that will encourage writing. Big plumpy pillows and throws are nice.

Have good natural lighting. Natural light is scientifically shown to be mood-boosting and energy stimulating. Find a well lit place, so you will not be tempted to take a nap instead. And it will help keep negativity at bay.

Living plants are always nice touch . Because we need plants for good air and keeping those writing brain cells going.

And finally, find a journal you like to write in. It is fun to pick out a special book to write in. I prefer harder cover journals that don’t bend so easily, something I have learned the hard way. Plus, I like a matching pen!

Further reading:

A Cozy Winter White Nook

Sources Used:

psychcentral.com/lib/the-health-benefits-of-journaling/

www.usatoday.com/story/life/2019/12/07/studies-show-journal-diary-therapy-reduce-stress-boosts-immune/2598063001/

www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3759583/

www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/writing-about-emotions-may-ease-stress-and-trauma

www.sciencealert.com/a-study-review-shows-gratitude-isn-t-the-cure-all-for-depression-that-some-people-claim

www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/anger-in-the-age-entitlement/201309/the-good-and-the-bad-journaling

www.huffpost.com/entry/benefits-of-journaling-_b_6648884?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAKWMq3_KwdyaIOGAYa4vN9bQzdZHD93jiPvjWKpBIzoS3AM99Et03iovSxpCveZa19xYu3MLKJw4Fw9LGn5Y3RVUav9c1qv25xjAdlcFx1LwM-hz9A-wYojIrL563bx5NRrdpLa2qLE96QMP2ZcOoew20osuyE4ajxGsvVmjcO1-