Writing Therapy: 6 Ways to Heal Yourself & Embrace 2021

The year 2020 has impacted us in different ways. writing therapy

It has changed the way we think, our relationship with things and other people, and the way we live our lives.

People react differently to change. There are those who embrace change with open arms, who view it as a way to broaden their horizons. On the other hand, there are also people who struggle to find their footing on top of a shifting landscape. 

Whether you embrace or struggle with the change 2020 brings, it’s important to self-reflect and keep track of your progress. And the best way to do so is through writing. 

8 Awesome benefits of writing 

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  • Accessible for everyone
  • Affordable
  • Portable
  • Lower blood pressure
  • Improves sleep
  • Strengthen the immune system
  • Creates self-awareness
  • Stimulate brain

And most importantly…

Writing is therapeutic

Yes, writing can help alleviate anxiety and depression, trauma-related cognitions, and behavioral problems in children that suffer from PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder). Aside from that, writing can also minimize disease symptoms and improve the irritable bowel syndrome of people with long-term diseases. 

In order to reap the benefits of writing therapy, you must find meaning in traumatic memories and allow yourself to feel all the associated emotions that go along with the memory.

6 Types of writing to help you heal & improve yourself

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There are different kinds of writing techniques that can be used to heal and improve yourself. And in order to gain the most out of your writing, be sure to choose a writing technique that suits your needs. 

Free writing: No holds barred

There are no rules or boundaries for this kind of writing. You’re free to write anything you want! Yes, you can write everything from your most cherished memory (so you can relive it!) to your scattered late-night thoughts — basically, a brain dump. The cathartic effect will come from reading and reflecting on what you have written down. 

Letter writing: Building relationships

Letters don’t always have to be addressed to another person. You can always write what you’re going through right now or the lessons you’ve learned to your future self. Letters are also a great way to touch base or even repair broken relationships with friends, family, or even people you’ve hurt. 

Expressive writing: Writing to heal

Expressive writing is often used by people who’ve experienced a traumatic incident. As opposed to freewriting, the goal of expressive writing is to help the writer come to terms with their situation by writing down their thoughts and feelings about their experience. 

Reflective journaling: Improvement and growth

The goal of reflective journaling is to keep track of events as they happen. By writing daily entries people can get an overview of their progress, while also encouraging critical thinking and self-reflection — which encourages empathy. 

Gratitude journaling: For the thankful

Gratitude journaling is a great way to be more aware of all the little things and blessings life gave us. To be more aware of how the absence of certain things may affect our lives, and how unexpected events can be a blessing. 

Poetry writing: For the creative

Poetry writing is for people who need an outlet for their creative energy. This kind of writing is helpful for people who need a metaphoric and philosophical way of expressing their emotions.

Which kind of writing therapy are you interested in trying out? 

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