Writing Has Therapeutic Benefits

In a day where it has almost been replaced by artificial intelligence, writing may not be the first thing to come to mind in terms of self-care. However, writing has been shown to have many benefits, including increasing retention, decreasing depression and anxiety, and improving overall health. Writing is a wonderful form of self-expression that can allow us to process, critique, and learn from our experiences and observations in a structured way.

How often do you take pen to paper? Maybe, now that you know the advantages of writing, are you inspired to write more often? If you don’t know where to start, here is a simple practice to reap the benefits of writing:

1. Decide when you will write

It could be once a week, a few times a week, or daily. Or, maybe you decide to make it a one-time experience for a week. Then pick a time during the day when you are feeling the most creative. This is something that varies for everyone. Some feel the most inspired right when they wake up, and some in the middle of the night.

2. Write

Spend 20 minutes writing, using either a computer or paper. Write about your deepest emotions and thoughts, and about what is most affecting you in your life. If you feel inspired, keep going past the twenty minutes.

3. Reflect

How did writing help you to process these thoughts and emotions? Do you feel better after your writing session? If you struggled to put words on the page, brainstorm what could help you to do so next time.

If you would like to learn more about the benefits of writing, read this article from Northern Illinois University. Happy writing!