Real stories come from the successes and failures, joys and sorrows of everyday life. And 20 years of research tells us that devoting 15 minutes each day to writing about what we’ve experienced, felt or dwelt on can help improve almost any ailment, body or mind (so says the Sydney Morning Herald).
Psychologists call it “expressive writing” – a kind of healthy expression focused on the release of emotions. But unlike (say) blogging there’s no audience, giving people the complete freedom to unleash their thoughts and feelings without fear of judgment. That makes you feel good.
But the feel-good factor is just the start. Regular, deliberate expressive writing can help control cancer-related pain, reduce the severity of rheumatoid arthritis and increase lung function amongst the asthmatic. Of course you don’t need to be seriously unwell to reap the health benefits. Writing can also improve immunity, blood pressure and memory. So next time you’re feeling down or out of sorts – write it up! Happy scribing…
