12 Days of Self-Care: Day 12

Keep a journal for yourself

By Brandi McMurry

Photo by David Iskander on Unsplash

On the last day of self-care, the whirlwind of the holiday season is coming to an end. Journaling can be very therapeutic for your emotional health, and a great creative portal. Studies show journaling regularly can even help with organization in your life.

Journaling can be especially helpful to cope with stress and anxiety. Use it as an outlet to share your secrets you can’t share with anyone else, or as a venting session.

Try freewriting to get your creativity flowing. This could be in a poetic form, or maybe a short story. Drawing or doodling can be included in your journal as well to help you express anything you may be holding on to internally. This is your journal, so express yourself in any means that feels true to you.

You can use your journal as a daily diary for food and nutrition. Be sure to note your meals including portions and times, and how you feel after eating. This is a great way to find if you are having a reaction to any foods without using an elimination diet.

Another way to use journaling is to jot down anytime you feel upset or triggered. You may notice a pattern and pinpoint the issue causing stress.

Set aside a time each day to journal. If journaling is built into your daily to-do tasks, you will be more likely to stick with it daily to reap the most benefits from journaling.

Journaling is a great way to bring daily affirmations into your life for more positivity.

You can also use your journal as a planner to keep track of daily tasks, goals, and progress toward said goals.

Lastly, use your journal as a gratitude diary. Give thanks to all of the blessings in your life and for which all you are grateful.

Photo by Brandi McMurry