Jot your thoughts! It may be good for your health.
Does your life’s journey include keeping a journal?
If not, you might consider this popular pastime. Exploring your thoughts and feelings in writing may actually help set you on the path to a healthier, happier life.
Write all bout it. Whether you jot in a notebook or type on your laptop (see my below suggestion), keeping a journal can be a way to:
- Work through difficult times or emotions, including anger, anxiety or fear
- Identify stressors – and explore positive solutions
- Express gratitude – which can increase your sense of well-being
- Track health or lifestyle goals – and stay motivated
- Cope with an manage a chronic condition, such as diabetes or arthritis.
Write from the heart. You might begin by setting aside 15 minutes a day for journaling.
Electronic Journals
I began journaling because I was helping my oldest Son with a biography project. It took me back to things that I had forgotten about in my life. I figured I better get this stuff down so I don’t forget completely.
Earlier in the year I began using the Day One App. For me (as an Apple user) it makes journaling simple. It syncs with my iPhone, iPad and MacBook.. Each entry backs up to either iCloud or a DropBox account. Dates are automatically set…you can add photos.. You can have the App automatically pull the location you are when writing your journal post…or the weather. You can even set up a reminder…where the App will remind you to post a journal entry. It makes it easy.. I love it…
Cartoon diaries
Journaling can also help kids and teens cope with stress and emotions. Do you have a budding young artist in the house? We do…. You might encourage them to keep a diary (or call it a journal!) in a comic-book format.
(portions of the post have been shared by OptumHealth’s Taking Care)
