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Seeking the assistance of trained professionals to manage the annoying tensions and pressures that build up in every day life is not a common practice for most people. Only when a crisis has wrought physical symptoms, and at the suggestion of their doctor, will they entertain the thought of paying someone to assist them with their emotional problems. The cost of therapy is prohibitive, so most plod along, day in and day out, coping with stress-filled, hectic lives as best they can.

It is not uncommon for an individual to vent stress to a close friend or relative, and then conclude the tense conversation with a flip attempt at humor by commenting, "That was cheap therapy."

There is another form of cheap therapy to consider. Adopt the practice of writing your cares away. Writing is therapeutic, stress-reducing and free. Your writing can take the form of a computer blog, a journal, a diary, or even a writing site, like Helium.com.

Whatever form your writing takes, it is a cost-effective tool for raising self-awareness, restoring peace of mind and increasing the quality of your life.

Writing gives you the opportunity to address issues before they develop into full-blown problems without fear of criticism or judgment. You can express yourself on paper in a private manner, or use a pen name when writing in a public venue.

Developing the healthy habit of writing each day can serve the following purposes:

* Venting anger and frustration without hurting anyone.

* Raising self-awareness

* Analyzing events and their impact on your life.

* Reducing stress

* Clarifying thoughts

* Problem solving

* Dealing with a painful past and putting it to rest.

* Identifying goals and aspirations

* Developing ideas and a plan to bring them to fruition.

* Getting organized

Writing is an extended version of, "Let me think about it and get back to you." When a situation arises that requires your attention or an informed decision, you can write down the pros and cons, do a little research if necessary, and weigh carefully your response.

Using writing in this manner will help you remain stress-free and grounded.

As you improve your ability to process events with critical thinking, you will increase your positive attitude and acquire an aura of calm. Peace and harmony will not just be words to describe some abstract, ideal existence; you will be able to attain peace and harmony in your daily life, as you apply the benefits of clarity and reason attained through your writing exercises.

Writing, as cheap therapy, can reduce the possibility of being overwhelmed by burn-outs, melt-downs, and unwieldy situations, potentially requiring the need for costly counseling or professional therapy.

When you are on overload, frustrated, stressed-out, and barely able to cope, take a deep breath and write it all down. Hopefully in doing so, you will improve your perspective and face the challenges of life with a renewed spirit.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
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