Pencil to Paper

Did you ever keep a diary?

You know, the little book with the key that only you could open and read? Growing up my friends and I all had diaries. I can still remember hiding it in my bedroom. This was a tool we used as teenagers to keep private thoughts tucked away. Today, when keeping a Diary, it is typically to record specific events and experiences as a record of your life. It seems now we are all journaling rather than using a diary. The aspect of journaling is a place to record all our thoughts, feelings, and emotions.

What is it about journaling that is so powerful?

Keeping a journal helps us create order when our world feels like it’s in chaos. Looking back, those diaries had all the drama that made us feel uneasy. You get to know yourself by revealing your most private fears, thoughts, and feelings. Look at your writing time as personal relaxation time. It's a time when you can de-stress and wind down. The process of journaling has so many benefits.

When you use your journal to write down your goals, you can keep better track of your intentions. This action can improve writing and communication skills. It reduces stress and anxiety. It can also help you find inspiration while strengthening your memory. While some can write for hours at a time, researchers say that journaling for at least 15 minutes a day, three to five times a week, can significantly improve your physical and mental health.

On a recent trip to Calabria, Italy, my husband and I found notebooks written in many years ago by my father-in-law. It was so special to read his thoughts and stories. As this world has drastically changed toward technology, I believe there is great power in the written word.