As we’re now at the midpoint of the year, this is the perfect time to press pause and reconnect with yourself. Journaling is a great way to do this – and there is plenty of research available that proves the many benefits of this simple activity. An easy habit to pick up, I hope this article proved the perfect guide to journaling for beginners.

Studies have shown that journaling can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, such as negative thought patterns. Journaling helps organise and process these thoughts and allows for greater consideration of how best to respond and move forward. 

One journaling exercise that I often return to is The Morning Pages, which is an exercise taken from Julia Cameron’s best selling book, The Artist’s Way which has sold over 4 million copies! It is a daily writing ritual with the aim of filling three pages with your stream-of-consciousness.

The book is full of hundreds of other activities but the ‘The Morning Pages’ was the activity that resonated with me best. I found it such a freeing experience, knowing that I was writing for no one else but myself, and even then it wasn’t really ‘for me’ or ‘to me’ – simply an opportunity to get everything out of my head and down onto paper without fear of judgement.

JOURNALING FOR BEGINNERS

Obviously, it’s important when forming a new habit to feel out what works for you, but personally, I prefer to journal in the morning as it clears my head and improves my focus throughout the day. So figure out the right time for you, and get your journal and pen ready.

Not sure how to start? Although the previously mentioned stream of consciousness style of journaling can be really effective, using structured prompts or questions can be a great stepping stone into journaling for beginners. Below are a series of prompts I often use: 

Think of a really happy time in your life – where was it, who was there, what was happening

What is something true about yourself that you need to embrace more openly and lovingly? 

What are you most grateful for in your life right now? 

Use 10 words to describe yourself… 

How would your friends describe you… 

My biggest strength is… 

My favourite way to spend the day is… 

I feel most energised when… 

Write down 3 things you are grateful for today and why 

It might take time to decide what to write – and that’s ok. When it comes to journaling for beginners, there are no rules, and no right or wrong way of doing it. With time journaling can become a great daily practice with proven benefits.

Louise is a yoga teacher and an experienced brand manager and creative producer. She has more than 10 years experience working both in-house for lululemon and Red Bull as well as agency side for Apple, to name a few.  She is a certified vinyasa yoga teacher, teaching public and private classes (currently online) and also collaborates and consults wellbeing and lifestyle brands. Louise also writes a weekly email called ‘Purpose Break’ where she offers ideas for how to spend a break that’s more than just a caffeine hit. To keep up with what Louise is up to, follow her on Instagram or check our her website