Start Each Day With A Grateful Heart…

“If you must look back, do so forgivingly. If you must look forwards, do so prayerfully. However, the wisest thing you can do is be present. Present in the present…Gratefully.” – Maya Angelou

One way to reflect on the past, present and future is to journal. Journaling generally can mean the practice of keeping a diary or journal that explores different thoughts, feelings, setbacks, internal experiences, and goals for you in your personal life. There are numerous health benefits to keeping a journal to release thoughts from your mind and physically write them down on paper. Some benefits of journaling include: clarity of thoughts and feelings, ability to understand yourself better, reduce stress, resolve conflicts, enhance creativity and intuition, problem solve, promote healing, and provide an overall better understanding of life – how to appreciate it, make improvements, cope with difficult situations and ultimately display gratitude.

According to PsychCentral.com, “There is increasing evidence to support the notion that journaling has a positive impact on physical well-being. University of Texas at Austin psychologist and researcher James Pennebaker contends that regular journaling strengthens immune cells, called T-lymphocytes. Other research indicates that journaling decreases the symptoms of asthma and rheumatoid arthritis. Pennebaker believes that writing about stressful events helps you come to terms with them, acting as a stress management tool thus reducing the impact of these stressors on your physical health. The act of writing accesses your left brain, which is analytical and rational. While your left brain is occupied, your right brain is free to create, intuit and feel. In sum, writing removes mental blocks and allows you to use all of your brainpower to better understand yourself, others and the world around you.”

Most of us have daily stressors that we face in our lives and if we have the appropriate tools to cope with them, we can allow healing and peace of mind. A positive mindset can easily translate the outcomes of our situations. Meaning it’s not as much as what happens to us in life, but how we REACT that matters most!

Take a look at our suggested journal questions listed below as a guide to help you reflect and release. Try to write at least 20 minutes (more if you’re on a roll!) per daily topic for the most effective results. And, the most important rule is there are no rules! Don’t worry about spelling and punctuation, or think too hard. This journal is private and for your own personal reflection. Just let your thoughts flow and feel liberated. Let’s get started. All you need is a piece of paper, a pen, and willingness to release!