THE THERAPEUTIC POWER OF JOURNALING
How You Can Start Your Journey Today
I mentioned on page 1 of this newsletter how journaling led me to a profound epiphany and how that epiphany shapes the ways I help my clients and move through life. Since starting this process, I’ve become a tremendous proponent of journaling as a wellness habit. While journaling may seem time-consuming, requiring you to sit down and write about some boring topic, it’s actually the complete opposite. Journaling is a simple activity with an incredibly high return, and just by writing a few short sentences every day, you can make life-changing discoveries about yourself — just like I did. So, what are the benefits of journaling? No matter how you journal (whether it’s on index cards, your phone, or in a notebook), research has found that the habit hugely benefits our mental health. According to multiple studies, journaling can: • Reduce depression and anxiety • Boost immune function • Increase gratitude • Help someone recover from traumatic events • Improve memory function HOMEMADE PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE Inspired by AmbitiousKitchen.com
However, I understand that beginning — and sticking to — a journaling habit can be challenging for many people. Luckily, you can use these simple tricks to make forming the journaling habit easier. Pick a time and place. The easiest way to begin a journaling habit is to do it at the same time every day and in the same space. You’ll be much more likely to remember to journal if you always do it before bed, once you wake up, or at some other clearly specified time. If it helps, you can even set a recurring alarm to help you remember! Journal rule-free. Don’t commit to a certain number of pages or journaling time each day; just write what comes to mind for as long as you want. Doing so will make the habit more enjoyable, and you’ll feel less pressure to stay consistent! Write what’s on your mind. Don’t get caught up with writing prompts, which can sometimes lead to writer’s block. Instead, write about whatever you’re currently thinking about, even if it seems trivial.
Finally, and most importantly, stay consistent! Doing so will yield the best results.
CANDY COSTUME GOURDS HALLOWEEN
HAUNTED MOON RAVEN TRICKS
VAMPIRE WEREWOLF WITCH ZOMBIE
INGREDIENTS • 2 shots espresso (or 1/2 cup freshly brewed coffee) • 1 cup milk of choice
• 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice • 1 tsp vanilla extract • Whipped cream for topping (optional)
• 3 tbsp pumpkin purée • 1–2 tbsp maple syrup
DIRECTIONS 1. In a small pot on medium heat, heat milk until simmering but not boiling. 2. Make your espresso (or coffee) and pour into a large mug or Mason jar. Add pumpkin purée, maple syrup, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla and stir until well combined. 3. With a milk frother, froth the heated milk until foamy. Then, pour into your pumpkin espresso mixture and top with whipped cream. For decoration, you can sprinkle more cinnamon or pumpkin spice on top!
WWW.BRAUNSLAW.COM | 3
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator