Sometimes there are just certain feelings and topics you really don’t have anyone to talk to about, at least not without forking over $150 an hour to a therapist. Journaling is free. You can do it by yourself, and there is no one there to judge.

The point of journaling isn’t to record what’s going on in your life, soul or brain, it is to get it out of you once and for all. Its a form of self-therapy and self-awareness. You don’t need a topic and you don’t need to be a writer. All you need is paper and a pen or pencil, or if you prefer, a keyboard and a word processing program.

No one else ever needs to read your thoughts. There doesn’t have to be any rhyme or reason to them. There is no right or wrong. Just start. Whatever comes out of you comes out.

You can write freeform – thoughts, feelings, ideas, concepts, just let it all go.

You can also use journaling as a way to get out things that you wish you could say to someone – this maybe someone who is living or who have passed on. You don’t have to do anything with the letter, or if you are so inclined and think it would help you further, mail the letter to the receiver afterward. Tearing it up or burning them are also other options that seal the feeling of closure.

There really are no rules. Journaling can be done as often as you like and is sometimes referred to as automatic writing. The words sometimes start to flow so freely many have stated that it feels as if someone is writing through them. That is because writing is creative. It involves the right side of the brain. Time may seem to stand still. The thoughts are coming from your subconscious mind. Don’t fight against it, you may be surprised at some of the things that come out and the breakthroughs you may have.

It’s a good feeling to be able to work through tough situations and times all on your own. Though we also want to make sure to mention that if you are going through something and do feel like you need outside help, asking for help is never a sign of weakness but of strength.

How this is helpful for health

Health is often a manifestation outwardly of our inner emotions. While treatments, medications, diets, and more may help us fix and adjust our bodies to truly heal its that inner cause that needs to be rooted out and corrected.