5 Tips for an Immersive Journaling Practice

DO YOU FIND IT HARD TO MAINTAIN YOUR JOURNALING PRACTICE?

Journaling is a practice that has been around for years, however, in recent years it has become a trend under the self-care umbrella. Now don't get me wrong, it is an act of self-care, but it goes beyond simply writing your thoughts of the day down onto the page. As I practice and teach it, journaling is a radically sacred way of honouring Self and the life you have lived/lived. Whether expressive or restorative, journaling can help you find peace, ease and gratitude for your day-to-day experiences.

To help you make your practice more immersive and personalised try my top five tips!

1. Come with no expectations - when you allow yourself the space to flow with your energy/emotions, you will be more inclined to speak your truth. Placing expectations in your journaling practice means that you have a preconceived idea of what you want to say. Journaling is a special time for you to speak on the things that you would necessarily feel awkward expressing out loud. This brings me to tip No. 2
2. Say it with your chest (and ribs!) - Do not censor your words or restrict your feelings. Let it all flow out onto the pages of your journal. Think of the places and spaces where you hold your tongue and how that makes you feel, well your journal is not one of those environments - so say it as it is, no filter.
3. Make it an occasion - I understand that sometimes life does not afford us the luxury of journaling in our favourite nook in our rooms all the time, however, to make your practice feel more inviting and sacred, it is important to create an environment that reflects this. Light a candle, experiment with some aromatherapy etc.
4. Do not limit yourself to one way of expression - journaling does not always have to be about writing, it can be an act of self-care that is expressed creatively. For example, you can doodle or sketch, use colour, add pictures etc. The more enjoyable you make it more you will want to return to it.
5. Hold space to exhale - incorporating breathwork into your journaling practice is a game-changer. I take a few deep breaths after I journal as it allows my mind and heart to connect as I process and/or release what I have purged. It helps you to relax and give yourself a moment to gather yourself before you continue with your day.

Although journaling may sometimes feel like another thing to add to your never-ending list, it is important to carve out this quality time with Self. During this time (I recommend at least 15 mins per practice) you are ultimately enhancing and improving your overall wellbeing. You are gifting yourself with a chance to

• process and regulate your emotions
• decrease the mind chatter
• connect with various versions of Self
• let the body relax and recovery

I invite you to try these self-reflective invitations to help you ease into your journal practice with more ease...

1. How is my heart feeling today?
2. What lies (limiting beliefs) have I clung to recently and why?
3. How can I meet my needs with more compassion and grace?

If you would like more support with your journaling practices or you would like to get guidance on how to start book a discovery call with me, enrol on the Seasons of Self course and/or subscribe to my podcast