Writing in a journal can be a very enjoyable and healing experience. It is an opportunity to express your thoughts and feelings freely, without being interrupted and without a fear of being judged.  This process of putting abstract thoughts and feelings into words can help you organize and reflect on your inner world, bring the unconscious into consciousness, and release uncomfortable emotions.  Many people find that when they write in journals, they enjoy a sense of increased self-awareness and clarity.  Journal writing can also help you remember thoughts, dreams, and feelings that are especially important or striking to you, allowing you to easily access them at a later time.

If you are seeing a therapist/counselor, journal writing can help bridge gaps of time between sessions, allowing you to continue to
reflect on important issues.  At times you may choose to bring certain journal entries with you to your therapy sessions, as a springboard for discussion.

One nice thing about journaling is that there are no rules to it. You can find a setting that is most comfortable for you – you may be at home sitting in a comfortable chair with some of your favorite music playing, at a café with a cup of tea, or outside at a park. Experiment with whatever seems to work best for you. You can start by writing about whatever comes to your mind at the moment, and just let your thoughts flow freely.  Trust that what is most important to you will emerge eventually as you continue to write.