It is important to know that there are ways you can focus on your health and wellbeing other than physical activity! While physical activity is great for both the body and mind, there are ways to focus on complete health that don’t require getting physically active. Journaling is a creative and effective mental health tool that is proven to reduce stress while helping you to manage anxiety and depression, stay organized, and establish goals. Studies have shown that in only five to ten minutes a day, journaling boosts levels of self-esteem and productivity. Consider buying a small notebook, or even keeping an electronic log of your thoughts and feelings each day and watch as you become more in touch with yourself. Here are four tips for successful daily journaling:
1. Commit to writing every day. Doing something every day helps it become a habit. It can be committing to a journal every morning when you first wake up, in the evenings just before bed, or even during your lunch break at work.
2. Pick a set time and place to journal. You can journal in a comfy chair, sitting up in your bed with pillows behind you, outside on a park bench, or anywhere that feels like a calm, productive spot for your writing. Having a set time and place to journal will help you to develop the habit, and will put you in the mindset to write!
3. Set a time limit. Maybe you can only commit to writing 5 or 10 minutes a day in the beginning – try working your way up to 15 or 20 minutes as you become more comfortable with the process.
4. If being flexible works better for you, make that work. Some people thrive on schedules and formats, but they’re not for everyone. If you have a busy schedule, be open to fitting in your journaling when and where it works in your life.
Remember that prioritizing your health and well-being extends beyond physical activity. Journaling, a powerful mental health tool, offers a creative outlet for reducing stress, managing anxiety and depression, staying organized, and setting personal goals. Research has shown that dedicating just a few minutes each day to journaling can enhance self-esteem and productivity. To make the most of this practice, commit to daily writing, choose a comfortable time and place, set achievable time limits, and adapt the process to suit your unique lifestyle. By incorporating journaling into your daily routine, you’ll discover a deeper connection with yourself and foster holistic well-being.
– Malia Freedhand, Intern
