Writing your way to wellness
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Writing your way to wellness Author TRACY BUCHANAN provides her top tips on using writing as a way to promote improved mental wellbeing. It’s no secret Key Workers shoulder stress each day. Did you know that one of the best ways to help alleviate that stress is writing? Whether it’s about forcing yourself to be present in the moment, or unburdening any issues you’ve been carrying around, making writing part of your daily routine could really help.
So how to start with your writing adventure? Begin by treating yourself to a new notepad and pen. When you’re ready to dive in, don’t feel pressured to write for hours on end. Instead, carve out a manageable chunk of time each day, maybe five minutes or so. Try different times of the day to see when you’re most creative, too.
When you do begin writing, remember that therapeutic writing doesn’t follow a strict script. If writing about stress heightens tension, shift focus. Write about joy, gratitude or peace. Finally, don’t limit yourself to one style or format. Explore different forms of writing to find out what truly stirs your creativity.
Tracy Buchanan
Now let’s delve into those different forms… Journaling Instead of just documenting the day’s events, consider “present moment journaling”. Write about the sensations around you, what you can see, hear, smell, taste, and touch. This mindfulness approach can help ground you in the moment and offer a break from past worries or future anxieties. Poetry You don’t have to be Wordsworth to express yourself in verse. Try “emotion-focused poetry”, where you concentrate on expressing a
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single feeling. This can help you explore emotions on a deeper level. Storyboarding Storyboarding isn’t just for filmmakers. Try creating a visual map of a problem you’re facing, complete with characters and different outcomes. This practice allows you to visually structure your problem, evaluate it from different angles, and explore possible solutions. Letters Writing a letter you don’t intend to send can be a great outlet. You could write to a person causing you stress or comfort, or even an abstract concept. Addressing someone directly, with no fear of judgement or consequences, can
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