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For Mon Oct 6, 2008
I release the "shoulds" in my life that are based on feelings of guilt and obligation. I want honest and authentic relationships that come from the heart.
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Journaling
Journaling is a tool that helps you get to know who you are and what you believe through writing. It helps to develop and build an intimate relationship with yourself where you can learn to trust your inner voice. The process of writing brings together many parts of who you are: your intellect, emotions, images, dreams, and your imagination. Journaling allows issues to surface from an unconscious level to a place of awareness, where you can look at them more clearly. As you clear the mental chatter and the emotions that no longer serve you, you feel more harmony and balance in your life, and you come to a deeper understanding and appreciation of yourself.
There are no rules for "the correct" way to journal. You could try a free form of writing called stream of consciousness. You write whatever comes to your mind without censoring yourself. Just keep your pen moving without editing or changing anything. It is a fresh and free approach to expressing yourself.
Another idea is to record memories of your daily journey. Perhaps you might like to include mementos of special events in your journal, much like you would in a scrapbook. You might also want to include your dreams and feelings and personal symbols of those dreams. Or use your journal as an expression of gratitude for the blessings in your life, to write your prayers and affirmations, to develop and clarify your goals, or, to simply process issues or challenges. Remember you are doing this for yourself and no one will be reading it but you. Be free in your expression and have fun with it.
As you begin to write you might feel constricted or unsure. Learn to trust yourself. If a word and a phrase continually come up in your writing, know that it is significant to you. Take time to explore its meaning. You might try meditating on it. If you experience some inner resistance to writing about a particular topic, know that it is a signal of something you are not yet ready to face. Be gentle with yourself during this process.
Journaling becomes even more personal if you choose special paper or a special book. Find a book or paper that feels good in your hands and that is beautiful to your eye. Use a favorite pen so that the words flow with ease. Make it a "sacred book" to hold your words. Again, you might like to use your journal like a scrapbook, leaving room for photographs, drawings, or other special pictures you discover.
However you choose to record your journey, make it special for yourself. You have a story and your story is unique.
As with all things that make a difference in your life, journaling requires a commitment and a degree of self-discipline. Choose a time in your day to sit quietly, without interruptions. You might choose to do this as a part of your meditation time. It is a great way to begin and end your day by letting go of the unwanted emotions and thoughts that consume you. Allow yourself a few moments of slow, deep breathing, then begin. You will be amazed!
Many blessings as you begin the journey of self-discovery through journaling.
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