Why? Because it’s good for you! Your mind and body benefit greatly from stepping out of your busy outer world into the quiet of your inner world for a short time every day. Journaling about things that are important or concerning to you help you do this. And, if you are inclined to need proof, scientific studies show that when you allow your thoughts and feelings to find their way from your heart and mind onto the page, some amazing things happen.
Here’s an excerpt from my book, Your Journal Companion: 365 Writing Prompts to Heighten Awareness of Self and Others, that shares what research psychologist, James Pennebaker, discovered after holding a long-term study on personal writing (journaling) with a wider range of participants:
Pennebaker conducted extensive studies on groups of people who were asked to write for 15 to 30 minutes each day on assigned topics. Control groups wrote about superficial subjects, such as how they manage their time, while the other groups were given prompts on emotional subjects. Those who worked with personal disclosure showed improved immune function, heightened moods, stress reduction, lowered heart rates, and altered behavior, such as improvement of grades and lower work absenteeism. And, particularly noteworthy is this: the results were non-selective! From senior professionals with advanced degrees to maximum-security prisoners with a 6th grade education, all participants showed comparable emotional and physical benefits.
During my 21-Day Journaling Challenge, I simply ask you to find 20 to 30 minutes in your day to devote to personal writing. I guide you through this time with a short reflection and questions to consider, which you will answer in writing and take you into a place of greater self-awareness. With this awareness, comes greater self-knowledge, and with knowledge comes the opportunity to choose something different, better, richer and healthier for your Self.
You have nothing to lose and so much to gain in those short 20 to 30 minutes. Step into this time of self-nurturance and join my amazing, 21-day journaling journey! CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP!
Blessings, Plynn
Plynn Gutman 