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Writer's pictureBen Elliott

Blog #14 - Journaling

Welcome to Day 14 of the Wellbeing 9-a-Day blog! We are two weeks into our campaign, where we’ve looked at the W9AD, The Wellbeing 9-a-Day Journal, and each of the nine habits contained within it. In today’s blog, we are going to consider the benefits of journaling and how writing about your experiences each day can improve your health and wellbeing.



The Benefits of Journaling


Though it is not one of the Wellbeing 9-a-Day, journaling is, funnily enough, at the heart of this journal. Each day, The Wellbeing 9-a-Day Journal gives you space to write about your thoughts, feelings, beliefs, and experiences, as you continue your journey through transformed wellbeing.


For many, journaling is a method of self-help, a cathartic experience that creates expression of thought.


Studies show that journaling helps you sleep better, reduces stress and anxiety, and boosts your mood. It can be a liberating experience, boosting your creativity and helping you find and express your voice.


There is no right or wrong way to write in this journal. What and when you write is up to you.

Even with the framework that the journal offers, one hundred people could be given the journal and find one hundred different ways to approach it. You may choose to write at set times, such as in the morning and night, periodically over the course of the day, or just the way that feels right at the time.



My Journey with Journaling


Though I am a writer by trade, I have never been one to journal. I always thought that if I was using my spare time to write something, I should be working on one of the many projects I have undertaken over the years.


Over the months I have been developing The Wellbeing 9-a-Day Journal, I have begun journaling more, even if it is often limited to key thoughts and quotes I come across over the course of the day.

Though I am not an expert, history is full of wise people who have used journaling to help them develop. Known as the last of the Five Great Emperors of Rome, Marcus Aurelius believed in cultivating his spirit through journaling. He wrote each morning and night to build a better relationship with himself.


If you are not sure how to journal, Marcus Aurelius’ method of writing down thoughts, feelings, and experiences in order to build and maintain a better relationship with yourself is a good one to follow.



Call to Action!


Take some time to write down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences today. Whether you use The Wellbeing 9-a-Day Journal or your own notepad or journal, capture your feelings about the day. Be kind to yourself and see if you can build a better relationship with yourself through writing.

We are so excited to host the first of our online W9AD workshops tonight. We have a team of volunteers ready to learn about The Wellbeing 9-a-Day Journal, and we would love to see you there. Even if you do not have a copy of the journal yet, you can still get started with the Wellbeing 9-a-Day. As with traditional journaling, all you need is a pen and a piece of paper!



 


This blog was written as part of a 90-day blog writing fundraiser for Live Well with Cancer, a volunteer-led charity serving North Tyneside and the surrounding areas. If you enjoyed this blog, please show your appreciation by donating to my JustGiving page. Every penny raised from donations or sales of the journal will help deliver workshops, events and support groups that empower better health and wellbeing for those affected by cancer, including family, friends, carers, and healthcare workers.

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