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Feeling Down? Why You Should Pick Up a Pen and Write! by Kelli Porcaro
Mindfulness
November 22, 2016
After 40 years of research by James Pennebaker, and many others, we now know that putting words to emotions is significantly helpful in navigating emotionally charged situations. In fact, it is one strategy to help manage stress, anxiety and loss. Here's what Pennebaker suggests:
- Set aside 20 minutes to write three times a week.
- Write about your emotional experiences from the present and the past.
- Write for your eyes only. Don't worry about legibility or punctuation.
- Go wherever your mind takes you.
- If you don't like to write, use a voice recorder.
Reflect on your writings:
- It strikes me that...
- I wonder if...
- I am learning...
- I now see...
And finally, share your new insights with someone you trust. What choices do you have? How can you move forward with purpose?
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