I have a bit of a confession to make: I took a long-very long-break from writing in my journal. Not necessarily intentionally, but when I started this blog, I found that my journal writing did slow down eventhough what I blog about and what I typically journal about are quite different. Yesterday I busted out my journal for the first time in over a year--yes, that is right--a year. I knew it had been a long while since I had written in it, but when I looked at the last date entered, I was a little shocked because I did not realize I had neglected my journal for so long.
So, what made me get it out? I have been feeling a bit stressed about a few different things in my life--and as much as I've tried to use yoga and mindfulness to release some of the stress, I could still feel it in my mind and body. So, I found myself getting out my journal and writing nonstop for 4 pages front and back. And, I can definitely tell it made a huge difference. The situations I've been preoccupied with haven't changed, but simply by writing about them and my feelings about them, I definitely feel like a weight has lifted. I often advise my students that they should try out writing about their feelings when they are upset or stressed, and this was a case where I definitely needed to take my own advice!
I am and always have been a true believer in the power of journaling. I am right now setting an intention to make sure I am writing in it more regularly this year!
Are you a journal-er? If so, what are your thoughts about it?
Namaste'
Leslie
5 comments:
I journal every day and have done for years. I do "Morning Pages" - 3 pages of free writing every morning when I first wake up to exorcise the inner critic. It usually works :)
Hi, Rachel. I also did "morning pages" when I was reading The Artist's Way. I do agree it was incredibly beneficial. I just find it hard to get up early enough since I have to be at work by 7:15 a.m.
I took a long hiatus from journaling myself recently. I just... didn't feel like writing, ya know? Lately, though, I've felt inspired to write again, and getting back into it has felt good. But I'm never going to force it because I never want it to feel like a chore. It's supposed to be a release!
Hi Leslie
I LOVE your blog and that you've mentioned journaling. As a yogi and avid journaler I agree with all your comments. I also teach journaling and tell my students the importance of making a routine out of the practice like brushing your teeth.
For inspiration, check out my blog, http://www.dianaraab.wordpress.com.
Namaste,
Diana
my journaling definitely waxes and wanes. i have gotten out of the habit as of recent. i know i will get back into my own written word as soon as things with school calm down a bit ;)
thanks so much for your kind comment about popcorn. it meant a lot to me. hugs!!
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