By Angelica Niedermeyer
Have you ever felt like you were so bottled up with emotion you did not know what to do?
I certainly have. When I start to feel this way, taking out a pen and paper, a journal or even a notes document and jotting down how I am feeling can relieve some built up emotions. Journaling can be super beneficial for identifying and prioritizing concerns, making it easier to conquer them or at least get them out of my head.
When I am in the moment and forced to pick my brain, it can almost be like a type of meditation. Taking the time out of the day to journal when I need it can change my whole mood. Although a best approach would be to journal before bed or in the morning, it can be hard for me to keep to it.
Having a physical journal I can open up at the needed time and then put away makes it a safe space. Just allowing an opportunity to talk with myself and about my day can be a really reflective outlet.
I like to make lists about anything from triggers and negative thoughts to what makes me happy and what I’m thankful for. Doing this can put situations into perspective and help me process them.
Another reflective practice is pulling out the highs and lows of the day to break down what went down. To be hype myself, I like to write little quotes or reminders/goals for the week. Doing this expresses a motivational and supportive kind of self love.
When I am feeling creative, I also like to write poetry and to express what I am feeling by giving myself a task. An additional idea is even writing a letter to yourself or your body could be healing. Finding prompts on the internet can also be fun to fuel your imagination.
Journaling helped my mental health by letting me write or draw out what is going on in the form of a note taking. I love doodling and getting distracted with what I am thinking about. So, completely focusing on it is listening to the little voice I keep to myself. Remember it is always important to give yourself the attention you give so easily to others!