Anxious or Stress? Let the Words Flow

One of the worst parts of feeling anxious is when you can’t pinpoint WHY you’re feeling anxious - that’s when writing can help.

Did your teachers ever tell you to rewrite your notes before a test, so that your brain could process them better? The same 

thing works with journaling. If you have hundreds of little thoughts swirling around your mind and jabbing at your psyche all day, writing them out on paper can help your mind process everything into a narrative that makes sense. In other words, writing out your thoughts forces you to put the gibberish running through your mind into a fluid storyline.

Additionally, you might surprise yourself with what you’re writing! As you tap into your analytical, dominant brain to write out your thoughts, phrases, ideas, and statements can pop up that were stuck a little too far back in our minds for us to realize before.

Those voices in your head can feel really powerful, but once you write them out on paper in front of you, they seem less scary, which can help you regain control of your emotions.

If you’re unfamiliar with journaling, follow these tips:

• Write in a private space that makes you feel safe and where you are free from distractions
• Give yourself some time to reflect and balance after you’ve written, so don’t whip out your journal if you’re crunched for time if you can help it!
• If you’re writing to overcome a specific trauma, don’t feel as though you NEED to address it - journal about whatever feels right
• Structure your writing to whatever feels good to you - bullet points, free form, and ‘dear diary’ formats all work!
• Keep your journal private. Although you can discuss your thoughts and experience, don’t let other people read through your words - they’re your private thoughts for your eyes only.

Remember, I'm always here to help, email me your stress and anxiety questions at Toni@drtonicamacho.com. Also, one important aspect of stress and anxiety management is herbs. So click here and check out my stress and anxiety herbal supplements and essential oils.

See you next week
Toni