Beat the Winter Blues with Journaling

Polar vortexes, gray skies, the overwhelming need to hibernate, frostier temperatures usher in the ‘winter blues’ affecting both our mood and energy levels. To combat the seasonal blues, we are constantly reminded to move our bodies and get outdoors. However, we often forget about moving our minds in addition to our bodies. Journaling can clear our headspace and provide a much-needed respite from scrolling and binge watching (often at the same time!). A daily journal practice is an opportunity to go inwards to refresh and strengthen our minds.

Numerous studies have shown that regularly writing in a journal leads to better sleep, astronger immune system, improved self-confidence and IQ. In addition to being a highly effective form of self-care, journaling is also inexpensive and accessible.

Here are three easy steps to get you started on your journaling journey:

(1) Invest in a fun, appealing journal, personalize it if you want to (an opportunity for an artistic side project!). An inviting journal will spur you on to delve in and start writing.

(2) Find a cozy corner of your home and make it your ‘journaling’ spot – light a candle if it helps center you.

(3) Set aside15 minutes to journal, preferably at the same time every day. Journal in the morning to set your intentions for the day, or at night to reflect on what went well that day and express gratitude.

At first the blank page may seem intimidating – but your journal can be your therapist, best friend, collaborator and so much more! Bad day at work? Relationship issues? Pick up your journal and write about it – research has shown that writing about difficult events helps us recover from them faster.

Struggling with a decision? Use your journal to make the ultimate pros and cons list and tap into your inner guide.

Overscheduled and burned out? Make a to-do list in your journal that can span from mundane, everyday tasks to lofty five-year goals. The very act of writing down your tasks or goals will make them appear more manageable.

Stuck in a creative rut? Try stream of consciousness writing-write whatever flows out of you in the moment, with no agenda or judgement. Your sentences can be incoherent, your scribbles indecipherable – the messier the better! This therapeutic writing style helps clear your mind and make room for new, creative ideas.

As you become more consistent with your practice you will start to see a marked difference in your mood, creativity and capacity to deal with difficult events. Sitting down with your journal and a warm drink will soon become your favorite part of the day.

Happy Journaling!

About Maya:

Maya’s writing journey started at age 11 when she won her first short story competition. Since then, she’s continued to pursue opportunities which further her creative growth. While studying Literature at Queen’s University she edited the university’s annual literary review. At Oxford University’s publishing division- she collaborated with editors and authors in the development of academic textbooks. Maya continues to take on both corporate and creative writing assignments, and her work has been featured in the Globe and Mail.