Close X
Monday, November 25, 2024
ADVT 
Interesting

The Power of Journaling

Naina Grewal Darpan, 26 Jul, 2024 02:48 PM
  • The Power of Journaling

Journaling, often seen as a simple act of writing down thoughts, emotions, and reflections, holds profound therapeutic benefits that can positively impact mental well-being. In a world filled with overwhelming messages constantly flowing our way, journaling forces us to pause. Registered Clinical Counsellor, Jasmine Gill, underscores the transformative power of journaling, "Journaling allows a space to dialogue with yourself about what emotions and reactions you are having to something."

One of the primary benefits of journaling is its ability to facilitate emotional awareness and expression. Gill explains, "It forces us to confront how we feel about something, simply by naming what is happening both externally (about an event, or situation) and internally (how we feel about it)." This process not only clarifies emotions but also fosters introspection, enabling individuals to navigate complex feelings in a safe, structured manner.

Moreover, journaling provides a sanctuary for thoughts that might be difficult to verbalize. "If you are struggling with a relationship dynamic — whether with parents, a partner, or friends — and are worried about what to say to that person and how they might take it, writing a letter to them that you do not send can be a wonderful way of fully expressing your emotions without having to put yourself in a vulnerable position directly with them.", Gill notes. Journaling offers a safe space, especially when dealing with sensitive topics like relationships or personal challenges.

Another compelling aspect of journaling is its capacity to rewrite personal narratives. "We can’t change what’s happened in the past, but we can try to change how it impacts us in the present. Journalling allows just that. By revisiting a painful memory or internal narrative we have about a challenging event, we can reflect on what we would have wanted differently. We can change the ending, change the dialogue, and write what we might have wanted to say, but in the moment, for whatever reason, couldn’t.", emphasizes Gill. 

As such, reflecting on past experiences through writing enables individuals to revise perspectives, imagine different outcomes, and heal emotional wounds. It is a way to process and reshape how past events continue to impact our present. Gill points out that the beauty of journaling is that it is supposed to be messy; it can be an unedited collection of thoughts, emotions or ideas. For those new to journaling and wanting more structure, Gill offers insightful prompts to spark reflection and engagement:

  1. Looking back at the day, what made me feel emotional? How do those emotions sit in my body? What am I most aware of in my body? 
  2. What are 5 things I am feeling grateful for in my life? 
  3. How do I want others to perceive me? And is that how I perceive myself?
  4. Think back to a time when I felt proud of myself. Who was there? Reflect on how that experience was, in detail. And how do I feel now thinking about it? 

  1. If I could tell someone I cared about this feeling that I am feeling right now, without censoring myself, what would I say, and how do I imagine that person would respond to me?

While prompts offer a structured entry point into journaling, you may come up with your own ideas as well. The intention is to encourage a range of introspective explorations, helping with self-awareness, emotional processing, creativity, and achieving personal and professional goals. 

Whether used for daily reflections, emotional processing, or goal setting, journaling serves as a versatile tool for personal growth and self-discovery. Integrating journaling into daily routines can foster emotional resilience and promote mental clarity. By embracing this practice, individuals can cultivate a deeper understanding of themselves, nurture emotional health, and embark on a journey of personal transformation!

MORE Interesting ARTICLES

Man Falls Into Giant Hole After Stepping into It to Check if It's Real

Man Falls Into Giant Hole After Stepping into It to Check if It's Real
A man was recently injured after falling into an 8-foot-deep art installation at the Serralves Foundation Museum in Porto, Portugal. He apparently though it looked fake, so he decided to step into it to make sure.

Man Falls Into Giant Hole After Stepping into It to Check if It's Real

Guess What's Dirtier Than A Toilet Seat?

Guess What's Dirtier Than A Toilet Seat?
If you think toilet seats are the dirtiest ones swarming with germs, look at your smartphone. A research has revealed that smartphone screens have three times more germs than a toilet seat.

Guess What's Dirtier Than A Toilet Seat?

Bikini-Clad Protest Balloon Of London Mayor Sadiq Khan To Fly Over UK Capital

Bikini-Clad Protest Balloon Of London Mayor Sadiq Khan To Fly Over UK Capital
A giant balloon depicting London mayor Sadiq Khan dressed in a bikini will fly over Parliament Square this weekend. Organisers have raised more than $75,500 for the 29ft blimp as part of a campaign seeking to remove Mr Khan from his post.

Bikini-Clad Protest Balloon Of London Mayor Sadiq Khan To Fly Over UK Capital

Italian DJ Olly Esse Alleges She Was Slapped At Hyderabad Airport, Airline Denies

Italian DJ Olly Esse Alleges She Was Slapped At Hyderabad Airport, Airline Denies
"The lady at the desk who was supposed to help me was rude. At the end of the story she slapped me. I want to complain to the police, but that was not possible as the guy (police) who should take the complaint was not there. I feel violated," she said in the video.

Italian DJ Olly Esse Alleges She Was Slapped At Hyderabad Airport, Airline Denies

Video Of Man Offering Namaz Inside Gurdwara Goes Viral

Video Of Man Offering Namaz Inside Gurdwara Goes Viral
The footage shared by Sikh Inside, a popular page that shares activities in gurdwaras around the world, claimed that it happened in Malaysia.

Video Of Man Offering Namaz Inside Gurdwara Goes Viral

New NASA App Clicks Selfies In ‘Out Of The World’ Locations

New NASA App Clicks Selfies In ‘Out Of The World’ Locations
NASA has rolled out a new app that allows you to take a picture of yourself in a virtual spacesuit, posing in front of gorgeous cosmic locations, like the Orion Nebula or the centre of the Milky Way galaxy.

New NASA App Clicks Selfies In ‘Out Of The World’ Locations