Benefits of Journaling

Written by: JEAN PIERRE BRAVO, AMFT

Journaling is a great way to get in touch with your mind, body and soul. The simple act of writing something down tells your mind it’s important and should probably remember the information. There are many types of journals out there so one must go and experiment with them and see which one is right for them. My favorite way to journal is through an art journal and I also like to encourage the creation of an art journal with most of my clients. There are many benefits to journaling besides getting in touch with your internal world.

Remembering that you are more likely to remember something if you write it down is important to know when trying to achieve our goals. An art journal is a great way to journal your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The great thing about an art journal is actually recording your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in a way other than words. Using lines, shapes, colors, and symbols allows the individuals to record their experiences in forms that they can personally associate with. Sometimes people don’t know how to express how they feel in words so doing it in an image form is a great alternative. Additionally, some people are afraid of documenting in words due to privacy but the art allows for individuals to feel safe to express their feelings in ways that are more comfortable for them. Don’t be shy and experiment with journaling and see which one fits your style!

Below is a list of benefits and also a list of different types of journals.

*Benefits from journaling:

-documentation

-express self

-express feelings

-achieve goals

-track progress

-track growth

-increase confidence

-increase self esteem

-reduce stress

-reduce anxiety

-find inspiration

-strengthen memory

-improves writing skills

-improves art skills

-elicits fun

Types of journals:

-Food Journal

-Feeling Journal

-Writing Journal

-Diary

-Art Journal

-Fitness Journal

-Sleep Journal

-Dream Journal

-Thought Journal

-Gratitude Journal

Written by: JEAN PIERRE BRAVOMA, Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist 118676.  Supervised by Dr. Joselyn Josephine Ayala-Encalada Psy.D., Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist 96987Social Skills & Mozzaz Clinician