Do you often feel overwhelmed, your mind racing with countless thoughts, making it challenging to concentrate on the task at hand? Perhaps you find yourself replaying conversations from yesterday or planning the next steps when you should be focused on the present moment. 🤔

We've all been there. The good news is that a powerful, cost-free tool can help you regain control – journaling! Grab a pen or a keyboard, and we'll guide you through the basics to start your journaling journey.

First of all, why is journaling so beneficial?

• Stress reduction: It's a proven stress-reliever, promoting better mental well-being and increased self-awareness.
• Self-reflection and growth: Journaling provides a dedicated space for self-reflection, goal setting, and personal development.
• Self-discovery and expression: Whether you're documenting daily events, expressing your emotions, or exploring creative ideas, journaling is a valuable tool for self-discovery and self-expression.

7 great reasons why journal is the perfect life partner 😁:

• Journal doesn’t judge you, and it’s a safe space.
• Journal helps you see events in your life from different angles.
• Journal curbs overthinking. 🤯
• Journal regulates negative emotions.
• Journal keeps your deepest secrets. 🤫
• Journal doesn’t make you feel lonely.
• Journal doesn’t complain about your complaining. 👉🏼😉

Ready to get started? Here are a few tips:

• Opt for a smaller notebook; it'll fill up quickly.
• When you wake up, resist the urge to reach for your phone first thing in the morning; instead, jot down your dreams and morning thoughts.
• Try writing at least one line a day.
• Use it as a part of your mindfulness practice. 
• Listen to music while writing, it will calm you down and bring inspiration. 
• Schedule dedicated time for journaling in your daily routine.
• Write about your passions or current activities, whether keeping a training journal, documenting your meals, or exploring your latest book.

Journaling is your passport to a more balanced, focused, and self-aware life. Start your journey today and experience the transformation for yourself! 💫

Sources:

Journaling & brain: 

Baikie, K. A., & Wilhelm, K. (2018). Emotional and physical health benefits of expressive writing. Advances in Psychiatric Treatment, 11(5), 338–346. https://doi.org/10.1192/apt.11.5.338

Meditation & brain: 

Lardone et al. (2018) Mindfulness Meditation Is Related to Long-Lasting Changes in Hippocampal Functional Topology during Resting State: A Magnetoencephalography Study, Neural Plast. 2018; 2018: 5340717.

Music & brain:

Harris, M., & The, M. (2009). Music and the young mind : enhancing brain development an engaging learning. Rowman &  Littlefield Educatio+ UCF professors Kiminobu Sugaya & violinist Ayako Yonetani- The Burnett Honors College. “Music and the Brain”