Using Creative Writing Journals To Write In

By Freida Michael


Many people use diaries to keep a note of daily activities. The purposes of a journal go much deeper, with entries that express emotions, responses to events as well as questions and reflections about life. Creative writing journals to write in are often used on a daily basis, offering an important way to develop creativity. Studies have even shown that keeping one even has positive effects on both physical and emotional health.

Journal-keeping has a long history. For many centuries it was used as a tool for developing self-knowledge and enlightenment. Today we have found that there are other benefits to be obtained too. It can even benefit health and help to promote emotional healing.

One of its most obvious uses is that it helps us to remember, just like a diary. We have a record we can look back on. However, it helps us to recapture the emotions we were experiencing rather than just the events. Sometimes we are unaware of what was really happening to us at the time but when looking back we start to see patterns and gain insights. We can take past experiences we have written about and understand through the lens of time the impact they have had on our lives.

Developing the habit of using a journal may be difficult at first. However, the more we write, the easier it becomes. Do not be too selective about what is written at first. It is like priming the pump until the good stuff starts coming out. We should not be discouraged by our stumbling attempts to express ourselves at first. As we persist, we soon start to find that our skills improve and the words start flowing.

In our world we are constantly bombarded by input from all directions. Taking pen to paper can help us to clarify our thinking. As we start expressing ourselves on the paper, it is like removing the clutter from our minds. Eventually, enough of the clutter is removed to give new ideas and insights room to flourish.

Many people love the idea of being able to play with ideas and express themselves freely without any judgment. They find relaxation in doing so that is beneficial to their health. Many people find that emotional healing comes from expressing their true feelings on paper. They release all their pent up rage and fear that they cannot express in any other way. It is a cathartic process for them, leading to greater emotional well being.

It may be considered old-fashioned to keep a journal in this day when just about everyone has a blog. However, a blog is not private and there is something special that happens in the brain when a person puts pen to paper. Problems can be explored, possibilities considered, emotions expressed and creativity stimulated by the process.

Many of those who are concerned with personal growth or spiritual development find a journal indispensable. It documents their journey and helps them to gain insights. For those wanting to develop their creativity, it is just as important. It helps them to clarify their thought processes and reach a place where new ideas and connections begin to flow. For others, it provides a way to express their emotions and promote healing.




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