Research shows that writing about emotional experiences can be good for your health. Given the events of the past year, there is unfortunately plenty to write about. The good news is that writing about such experiences can decrease anxiety, improve immune function, increase working memory, and improve sleep.
During or shortly after you finish writing, it is common to feel sad or depressed, however, these feelings usually subside. If you start to get upset when you write, stop or change topics.
What you write is completely up to you and is yours to do with what you want. Some people save and periodically revisit their writings, some edit and turn them into stories, while others erase, burn, shred, flush, or tear them into tiny little pieces and cast them into the wind. Whatever you decide, the important thing is to write and be as honest with yourself as possible. To get the most from your writing sessions, the experts recommend you:
- Find a place and time to write where you will not be disturbed.
- Write about something that you are over-worrying about, is affecting your life in an unhealthy way, or you have been avoiding.
- Write continuously for 15-30 minutes (not worrying about spelling or grammar) for 3-4 consecutive days.
- Repeat what you have written if you run out of things to write about.
- Let go and explore your deepest emotions and thoughts.
After you put pen to paper, you may be pleasantly surprised at just how good you feel and how your outlook on life has changed for the better.
