Being a mom with anxiety can be a lonely and isolating experience. You may feel like you can't express your feelings without judgment or fear of burdening others. However, there is one great tool that can help you process your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive way: journaling.
Journaling has been proven to be an effective form of self-care and can help you explore your emotions without fear of judgment. Inspired by the mental health experts Stylist spoke to, here are the benefits of journaling for moms with anxiety and how to get started.
Safe & Private
Journaling is a safe and effective way to reflect on thoughts and feelings. As a mom with anxiety, it can be difficult to talk to others about your fears and worries Journaling offers a safe and private space for you to process your emotions without fear of judgment. Writing down your thoughts and feelings without worrying about hurting or burdening others is helpful. This process can help you gain clarity and insight into your own emotions.
No Right or Wrong Way to Do It
There are no rules when it comes to journaling. Journaling can be whatever you need it to be. Some people like to write in complete sentences, while others prefer to make lists or write in bullet points. You can also get creative with your journal by using different colors, sketches or objects. The key is to make your journal a reflection of your own needs and desires.
Regulates Brain Chemistry
Writing by hand can help with mindfulness and self-reflection. While typing on a computer or phone may be convenient, there is something special about writing by hand. It can help you slow down and be more mindful about the words you are writing. Additionally, the act of physically writing can feel therapeutic on its own.
It's not just the satisfaction of creating something with your own two hands, but a chemical reaction going on in your brain. Your brain releases endorphins and serotonin. Plus, as an added bonus, cortisol levels – the stress hormone – decrease.
Recognize Patterns
One of the benefits of journaling is that it can help you identify patterns in your thoughts and emotions. When you write every day, you may begin to notice certain themes or triggers that cause you anxiety. By recognizing these patterns, you can work to change them or develop coping strategies to manage them.
Increase Feelings of Gratitude
Make space for gratitude in your journal. While it may be tempting to only focus on the negative aspects of your life, it's important to make space for gratitude in your journal as well. Every day, try to write down something that you are grateful for. This can help you shift your perspective and focus on the positive aspects of your life.
So many benefits! So, grab a pretty journal (we have one!) and a kickass pen, and start exploring your thoughts and feelings. Consider scheduling a time on your calendar to make it a regular habit.
P.S. If you really hate writing, consider collage, scrapbooking or junk journaling as an alternative habit that scratches the same itch!