Most of our modern communication is funneled through a keyboard or a touch screen. However, there’s evidence to suggest picking up a pen and paper can make a big change in your health and happiness. Let’s look at three ways writing can make your day that much better.
Journaling. Many of history’s greats were journal-keepers, from Charles Darwin to Marie Curie, and it’s not hard to see why. Journaling is a cathartic experience; it gives you a chance to examine your day from an outside perspective and reflect on what you’ve accomplished. Plus, it’s good for your memory. Writing by hand allows you to process information and retain the most important details.
Start with just a few minutes of writing at the end of each day. Don’t worry about recording every detail; instead, focus on things that made you happy or gave you a sense of gratitude. Before long, you’ll be in the journaling habit.
Handwritten Letters. When was the last time you received a handwritten note? Whether a simple thank-you for dinner or a warm holiday letter, there’s something about pen and paper correspondence that makes a special impression. But it may surprise you that writing a letter by hand can also improve your mood.
According to a study cited by the New York Times, participants who wrote three positive letters a week felt more satisfied with life, less tired, and less depressed. A good letter doesn’t have to be long or beautifully written. For some, picking out special cards and stationery can be part of the fun!
Freewriting. While journaling is a way to reflect on your day, freewriting is about exploring your subconscious. To get started, sit down with a piece of paper and a pen and write nonstop about anything that comes to mind for ten or fifteen minutes.
Because you don’t have to worry about composition or grammar, freewriting allows you to clear the clutter in your mind and refresh your perspective. You’ll be surprised how soon you dig up thoughts and ideas you didn’t realize you had.
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