Feeling Down? Why You Should Pick Up a Pen and Write! by Kelli Porcaro

Mindfulness
7 years ago

Feeling Down? Why You Should Pick Up a Pen and Write!

After 40 years of research by James Pennebaker, and many others, we now know that putting words to emotions is significantly helpful in navigating emotionally charged situations. In fact, it is one strategy to help manage stress, anxiety and loss. Here's what Pennebaker suggests:

  • Set aside 20 minutes to write three times a week.
  • Write about your emotional experiences from the present and the past.
  • Write for your eyes only. Don't worry about legibility or punctuation.
  • Go wherever your mind takes you.
  • If you don't like to write, use a voice recorder.

Reflect on your writings:

  • It strikes me that...
  • I wonder if...
  • I am learning...
  • I now see...

And finally, share your new insights with someone you trust. What choices do you have? How can you move forward with purpose?

Elisa Schmitz
Agree, Kelli Schulte - writing is therapeutic! Thanks for the reminder!
Kelli Porcaro
Sure thing! I'm such a verbal processor, so I'm either writing or talking out loud! It really helps me!
Meredith Schneider
Love this! So gonna try this when I catch myself feeling down. Easy to happen around the holidays when missing my parents. Gotta plan a trip to see them.
Beka Bolling
I try to do this every day, and even have added emoji stickers to help me make my writing more personal. It's very helpful to go back and review what I was feeling.
Kelli Porcaro
Meredith Schneider sorry I missed your comment. I totally agree...holidays can be a roller coaster of emotions. When you name or recognize how you are feeling, it helps you to navigate it more effectively. So whether it's in writing, talking to someone...it helps. You'll still miss your parents, but it may help you feel not overwhelmed by it. I hope you get to plan your visit soon! Xo
Kelli Porcaro
Beka Bolling LOVE that you are adding emojis!! A picture is worth a 1,000 words! πŸ˜‰β˜ΊοΈ And way to go to include writing in your daily practice. I've tried and just can't seem to do it consistently. I'm more of a verbal processor. Either way....it works!

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