5 Essential Tips to Journaling

I don’t know about you, but I struggled with journaling. The thought of writing my thoughts out, day after day felt like a task that I did not want to take on at the time.

What I realized is that journaling took my every day thoughts and exposed them to me before my very eyes so that I could see if the thoughts aligned with my future goals. It was a big wake up call and now I find a way to incorporate expressing myself in every day life.

Journaling helped me to:

1. Focus on WHY my thoughts strayed from my vision.

2. Practice self-reflection.

3. Be creative in the moment.

I also realized that l LOVE pen to paper, yet sometimes, my thoughts needed an immediate outlet. I wouldn’t always have a journal on me and I would use my phone to make notes.

It helped me to release the pressure of HOW to journal. I felt like it had to be a specific way, a certain length and at least a page. Truthfully, some days I wrote one paragraph. Other days, I wrote 'thank you' because I felt comfortable with what I was feeling in that moment. Of course there were days where a page was filled. I also journal through video and share my thoughts with others. I allowed myself to feel free with my thoughts and did not judge if one day's thoughts were less than a full sentence.

Here are a 5 essential tips to journaling that helped me to understand my journaling needs:

1. You can use any medium to journal

Whether it’s a notebook, your notes on our phone, Microsoft document or a sketchbook, you can choose any way to release your thoughts.

2. Create a special time for you to journal

Select a time of day and which days you would like to take the time to write, draw or both. Words and art are powerful - you can write or draw whichever way you are comfortable communicating your thoughts to YOU. This is your time to release what needs to be shed, yet it is a time to welcome what you wish for your future self.

3. Use templates, or don’t.

Some of you may find it difficult to focus so finding journal prompts can help you dissect your thoughts. You can also freely express what comes to mind in that moment, without judgement or fear. The important part to remember is to follow up with a solution-based thought that will help you eventually focus on your daily or future goals for yourself.

4. Review and reflect.

There is so much that you could potentially write about but one thing that is important is to periodically review your journal entries. This can help you identify patterns, track your progress, and gain insights into your life.

5. Be CONSISTENT.

You may start out drawing but need to add words to your process. You may start journaling daily but realize that it feels more natural to journal one or two days a week. The process will be unique and only you will know what works best for you. Be consistent with whatever you choose, turn that time into a special time for you – grab your favourite water bottle, make that tea, head over to your favourite coffee shop. Meditate beforehand. Make it a special time that you have dedicated to nurturing your mind. Show up for yourself consistently.

Be patient – the journaling process takes time. The more you put into it, the more you will feel connected to the process. Journaling is also an effective way to gain more awareness after your Reiki session. It gives you the power to connect to oneself and helps you to further release what no longer serves you. 

Happy journaling!

xo

Astra