“Write hard and clear about what hurts.” Ernest Hemingway
Our thoughts can often be all consuming. We can feel locked in by our internal dialogue, unable to escape.
Writing is a great way to process your thoughts, relax your mind and gain clarity. A 2011 study published in the journal of science found that students who journalled were better able to ease their anxieties.
Benefits also include:
Boosting self-esteem
Creating “Me” time
Relieves stress and anxiety
Increasing creativity
Letting go of thoughts
As simple as it sounds, writing can be incredibly daunting. What should I write? How should I write it? And our inner critic asks, is it good enough?
Mindful writing has been in my self-care toolkit since 2018. I’ve incorporated into my daily and weekly routines alongside meditation. I can speak first hand of the benefits listed above, especially the ability to let thoughts go by writing them down.
I have developed several different writing exercises which i’m sharing here so you can add mindful writing to your self-care toolkit.
5 Mindful Writing Exercises
Become more present
Examine a difficult relationship
Explore Your Identity
Relax physical pain
Increase Emotional Awareness