Writing therapy
published in the Republican April 2020
Fifteen years ago, I began writing my column, sharing my personal experiences while giving insight into disability issues. My hope is to empower and inspire people to live their best lives.
I have always believed in the power of writing therapy ever since I was a young girl. I always kept a journal writing down my wishes and frustrations. It was a way to destress while turning the page to start fresh every day. Writing therapy has been proven to improve memory. It can also be very healing for people who experience a traumatic event to write about what happened and how they felt. Writing therapy has been shown to help people with anxiety, depression, grief, chronic illnesses, substance abuse, eating disorders, communication skills and low self esteem.
Starting a journal can be done with pen and paper or at a computer. I prefer to use my iPad. Each week you should set a goal when you want to write. I always like to do it at the end of the day.
There are five steps to keep in mind while writing. The first and second steps are to decide what you want to write about and review. The third step is to investigate your thoughts and feelings. The next step is to set a time limit, which is very helpful when you want to relieve stress and let things go. The final step is to reread what you wrote and be refreshed for the next day.