I founded Becoming Anchored Co. because I believe that we can all become more anchored in what is truly important to us. Our commitment is to uplifting, inspiring, and supporting you. We are here to provide and cultivate hope whenever the opportunity arises.
Through evidence-based and hope-driven resources, we are here to facilitate a life more authentically aligned with your values. A wonderful way to begin this journey is to connect with yourself through the practice of journaling.
Friend, there are so many benefits of journaling that can positively impact our mental health.
Journaling supports us in identifying and processing our emotional state. Once we know what we are feeling, then we can also identify the underlying need connected to the emotion. When we put words onto paper, this can be one way to externalize our thoughts and fears, versus overly identifying with them. This beautiful and brave act of journaling is what we call containment.
To illustrate the concept of containment, think of a book on a shelf. IF we feel overwhelmed, we can write down our worries, then put the book back on the shelf, metaphorically - reducing our overwhelm and keeping our fears contained.
However, I understand that journaling can be intimidating. A lot of clients in my counseling practice often report feeling overwhelmed or not knowing where to begin.
My hope is that, after reading this blog, you will feel more confident in journaling.
Mindful Ways to Journal
Journaling can take many different forms. You might follow a prompt or feel inspired to write a stream of consciousness.
I’d also love to invite you to be flexible on the time of day you journal. Try morning, midday during your lunch break, or in the evening as you wind down. Explore what time feels most aligned to you.
Friend, you get to decide what is most helpful and beneficial for your mental health.
Stream of Consciousness Journaling
You may find it most helpful to write down whatever comes to mind.
For some clients who practice stream of consciousness journaling, they like to reflect at the end of the day. They might name things that did or didn’t go well that day. They might feel inspired to write about unmet expectations, conflicts in their personal or professional life, or reflecting on anything else that arises.
I encourage you to give yourself the opportunity to have a free flow and resist the urge to judge whatever may come up for you.
Following Specific Prompts
Another approach to journaling is to follow specific prompts. Here are a few to help get you inspired:
- What am I thinking at this moment?
- How am I feeling?
- Where do I notice the emotions in my body?
- What are things about my day?
- What did I learn today?
- What are things in my day that I would do differently moving forward?
- What am I grateful for?
An Invitation for Self-Compassion
Friend, as you begin journaling, I encourage you to be curious and gentle with yourself. Self-compassion and flexibility are super important through this practice.
Whether you write two words, two sentences, two paragraphs, or two pages – the purpose of journaling is to connect with yourself, rather than shaming or judging yourself. You don’t need to be perfect in order to feel, process, and accept your emotions.
Additional Resources
The New Happy:
I absolutely love @newhappyco. Essentially, they provide creative and artistic ways to think about mental health concepts. I hope you find it helpful, friend.
Mindful Affirmation:
I give myself permission to journal with curiosity over judgment.
I invite you to get curious, creative, and connected.
Becoming Anchored in Hope,
Laura
LPC-MHSP, CEDS-C, ACS, NCC
At Becoming Anchored Co., we are dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward personal growth and well-being. Our mission is to provide tools and insights that foster resilience, connection, and authenticity.
Our evidence-based resources, including our podcast and courses, are designed to empower you. We have also curated a selection of thoughtfully designed products to help you stay anchored – that you can wear on your path to discovery and growth.
We believe in the importance of creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every story is valued and honored. Join us in our commitment to thriving and flourishing together.
