Heal Yourself ( Its not like you have anything else to do )

If you're anything like me, quarantine can be a little hell on earth (maybe this was a little too much of an exaggeration but its close). Time, more than ever, is seemingly endless and filling up these long days have become harder than all the work I've been avoiding.  But on a serious note, being left with all this time lets your mind wander in places you've avoided for years; childhood trauma, those murky future plans, self reflection and that one heartbreak you never got over because it hurt too much to think about. While trying to fill up your to do list leave a spot open for journaling.

I know (trust me, I know), it's easier said than done especially if your mind is racing  and you have so many things to let out.  But remember the hardest part is always starting. To top it off, its personal and not a grade or an assignment, there is no right or wrong, you can work at your own pace and figure things out as you go. 

Heres how to start the habit:

1. Pick your journaling tool of choice

2. Pick a topic to write about

3. Write down all your thoughts, it doesn't matter if they aren't grammatically
correct or chronological, just write.

4. Identify pain points and or problems, brainstorm on ways to actively fix and work through them.

If you're like me and often need a more refined and organized way to do this here are instagram profiles dedicated to journaling and helping others do so:

@catherineandrews
Catherine's journaling prompts are geared towards mindfulness and spirituality. Her page is filled with nature photos and addresses the importance of connection and self compassion.

@jordanpickellcounselling
This platform uses her professional expertise ad a psychologist to create journaling prompts to help with healing, trauma and vulnerability. Her aesthetically pleasing page offers advice and positive quotes before offering relatable prompt.

@nerissanefeteri
Yoni uses her platform to encourage self improvement and relinquish toxicity through her daily affirmations coupled with journal prompts. Her prompts often come in "challenges" lasting 10 - 15 days and range from easy to difficult.