Recent Blogs

Published July 2024

mid the chaos of daily life, journaling could be the key to unlocking insights, untangling emotions, and shaping a more mindful intentional existence. 

There was a time I felt intimidated by journaling as an adult, either I wouldn’t know where to start or even worse what might pour out of me if I really stopped to take the time to assess my feelings. Well – one existential crisis / awakening later and journaling has become an absolute MUST for me.

So, if you’re looking to dig deeper into journal writing with some self-reflection prompts, or are new to journaling and are not sure how to begin, or just want find an adorable journal to write about your secret crush in – I’m here to help!

Switch Research 91-Day Self-Love

Night Journal: Guided prompt for reflecting on the day

52-Week Mental Health Journal: Guided Prompts and Self-reflection to Reduce Stress and Improve Well-being

Gratitude and Grit: A Journal for Growing Resilience

Journaling engages the mind, body, and brain. There are many areas of the brain that get activated and this helps process information and emotions easier.

Writing by hand is a lot slower than our capacity to think, which forces us to be present. It helps us to engage in our senses rather than our sometimes unsettled mind.

When we write things down the amygdala (part of our brain responsible for processing emotions and triggering fight/flight/freeze reactions calms down and as journaling becomes a habit, we’re better able to process our emotions, and no longer experience them with the same intensity.

When we write things down in general, information passes easier from our short term memory to our long term memory.

Say you’re ready for some deep reflection and you’re not sure where to even start, here are some journal prompts that might help:

1. What are my core values, and how do they influence my decisions and actions?

2. How do I handle adversity or difficult situations? What strategies can I use to improve my resilience?

3. Describe a recent moment of joy or gratitude. What factors contributed to this positive experience?

4. What are my long-term career aspirations? How can I align my daily actions with these goals?

5. How do my relationships impact my overall well-being? Are there any relationships that I need to nurture or improve?

6. Describe a recent moment of mindfulness or inner peace. How did I achieve this state, and how can I incorporate more mindfulness into my daily life?

7. How do I spend my leisure time, and does it align with my values and goals?

1. What situations or events tend to trigger my anxiety?

2.Describe how anxiety feels in my body. Where do I feel it most intensely?

3. Are there recurring negative thought patterns or “cognitive distortions” associated with my anxiety? (e.g., catastrophizing,          black-and-white thinking)

4. What coping strategies have been effective in reducing my anxiety in the past?

5. Reflect on moments of calm or relief from anxiety. What factors contributed to these moments?

6. What specific steps can I take to manage my anxiety proactively?

7. Track changes in my anxiety levels over time. Are there patterns or trends in my anxiety episodes?

8. Describe how depression feels for me. What physical sensations and emotions do I experience?

9. Are there specific situations, people, or events that trigger or exacerbate my feelings of depression?

10. What are common negative thoughts or beliefs I have about myself, others, or the future?

11. How do I typically respond to myself when I’m feeling depressed? Am I self-critical or compassionate?

12. Who are the people in my life who provide support or comfort during difficult times?

13. Describe moments of joy or relief from depression. What activities or experiences bring me temporary comfort?

14. Write down positive affirmations or qualities about myself that I can focus on during challenging times.

15. How can creative activities (e.g., writing, art, music) serve as outlets for expressing and processing my emotions?

16. Track changes in my mood and energy levels over time. Are there patterns or trends in my mood fluctuations?

From personal reflections to practical tips, journaling has become an essential practice in my own journey of self-discovery and growth. Whether you’re diving into journaling for the first time, seeking new prompts to enrich your practice, setting intentions, or documenting all your epiphanies (like me), there’s a guided journal to capture all of it.

Ready to dive in? Explore the recommended journals above and discover the joy of journaling for yourself.

fitness enthusiast. Founder of BalancedLivin.

You can email her at heyitsjenifer@yahoo.com