Journaling Techniques By: Christin Snyder

So far we have discovered many of the benefits journaling provides.
Some of them include: at-a-glance records of health/diet issues,
spiritual/emotional healing, dream interpretation, and creative
inspiration. The list is ongoing, but the point is they can be of great benefit to anyone who uses them.

Journaling is something that can be personalized to suit the needs of
every individual. Journals are not just diaries where you spend
hours each day recording all your deepest, darkest, secrets.
Journals can be very practical, and in many cases, can simplify the
lives of those who use them. Everyone can find at least one style of
journaling to benefit from, regardless of how busy their lifestyle is.

Below are some of the different types of journals that can be
created. Keep in mind one does not have to be a writer at all to
benefit from journaling. In fact, many writers, myself included,
didn't realize their passion for writing until picking up a journal.
Words can work for all of us.

*Dream Journaling

Recording dreams in a journal gives you a window into your
subconscious. Our dreams reveal the depths of our being. Dream
journals allow us to better remember our dreams, to view repeating
patterns, and to explore and interpret our own unique dream
language. Many who keep them are surprised by how much they learn
about themselves, and how effective these journals are in the healing
and growth process.

*Personal Diaries

These are the standard lock and key books many of us have
kept since childhood. This kind of journal allows us to record daily
life experiences, our thoughts, feelings, and actions. This type of
journal serves a great purpose, it allows us to express ourselves
freely without judgment. Reviewing these journals over time allows
us to see how much we have grown and changed. Often the old ones are
humorous ;), and we can see just how much wiser we've become.

*Food/Exercise Lifestyle Journals

These journals are wonderful for those embarking on new
health/improvement goals. By recording your progress, you are able
to look back and see at-a-glance how far you've progressed. This is
a powerful way to remain motivated to achieve goals. This type of
journal is also beneficial as a way to track your health and answer
any potential questions healthcare providers or other advisors may
have for you.

*Mood Journals

The benefit of this style of journal is to track our emotions
and find the reasons for different emotional shifts, mood swings etc.
For people with anxiety disorders, depression, or shifting hormones,
these types of journals provide tremendous benefits in being able to
look at the effects of various elements. Record in this journal your
feelings, why you are having them, and anything that may be having an
effect such as diet, medication, stress levels etc.

*Quotations Journals

These journals are wonderful for a variety of reasons. Use
them as a quick pick-me-up, sparks for writing, or to inspire
others. These journals are the simplest to keep because it only
takes a moment to add a quote or phrase to your collection. Let this
fun journal keep you inspired.

*Writer Sparks Journals

For those of us who love to write, this journal can be a
great tool for dealing with writers block and keeping the creative
juices flowing. Ever noticed how those great ideas always seem to
pop up at inopportune moments? Have you ever just sat there staring
at the blank screen wishing something would come out? Keeping a small
notebook/journal with you can help you to record these little ideas
as they come up, or you can jot down your idea and add it later.
Whenever you want to write, open up your journal and out pops some
great material to get you started.

*Electronic Calendars/Journals in one

In the electronic age we are provided with a whole new set of
options. Our planners and organizers can also be incorporated into
journaling through different software programs that allow you to keep
your information encrypted and safe from prying eyes. This is a
convenient way to keep everything organized in one centralized
location, and can keep even the severest procrastinator in the habit
of keeping notes.

These are just a few examples of the many different styles of
journaling. Everyone can find a method or combination of methods
that works well for them. Now that you have seen the benefits, the
various style ideas, and the keys to successful journaling I hope you
will be inspired to use writing as the healing tool it can be.

***************
Christin Snyder is a motivational author/speaker whose passion is
helping others realize their fullest potential. Visit her on the web
today for inspiration, personal empowerment tools, and writer
resources.
http://www.dailypowerwords.com