by Louise Ciccone

Created on: March 27, 2009   Last Updated: June 17, 2009

Journaling is a great way to reduce stress. Sometimes, we have problems in our lives, that cause stress. Much of the time, we feel overwhelmed emotionally, mentally and physically by the things in our lives, that we allow to cause us stress. Many people have problems with sleeping or insomnia, as a result of all these idea and thoughts that race in our heads, despite knowing specifically what they are. Sometimes, our body reacts to the thoughts we are having, but the thoughts are subconscious in nature at times. Journalising, can help with many things in your life.

It can help get those thoughts out. If you find yourself being anxious or unable to relax, it is probably due to thoughts in your head. Our bodies react to these thoughts physically. A thought will always come before a feeling. You may not know the feeling but the thought will always come first. You may think otherwise, but the truth is, the thought always comes first. A great way to get out those thoughts and relieve yourself immediately or in the long term, is to journal when you feel you are overwhelmed. When you feel scatter brained, get out a piece of paper or open a clear document on your computer and write/type away. Just write anything and everything that comes to your mind. You may find the thoughts pouring out faster then you can write them. This is good. It is a sign that you are overwhelmed by thoughts. Write everything that comes to your mind. Avoid worrying about spelling or grammar. Do not worry about neatness or whether or not your writing is legible. Do not go back and read what you wrote or spend time trying to understand it. Simply write down everything you can, for as long as you can, and then discard it or delete it if you are typing it.

Journaling has many benefits and there are many styles of journaling. The style mention here is what I call "Get it out and go". It simply means, to get out the thoughts in your brain at the time that cause you stress and then, move on with what you were doing.The great thing, is that you can use any piece of paper lying around.The point is to get it out. I find this useful in my life. After I journal this way, I feel relieved and less stressed out. I am more relaxed and calm. It may be difficult at first. You may feel awkward, but it does help if you learn to do it, and do it often. This technique helps you become mindful of your thoughts and actions and helps you to learn healthy ways of getting out your anxiety or stress without too much work.

So next time you feel scrambled and unable to focus or cannot sleep, pick up a pen or pencil, or yes, even a crayon, and write away.

Learn more about this author, Louise Ciccone.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.