Is there a vague emotional lump inside you, but you can’t really point out what is causing it? Do you find yourself constantly bustling with something so you don’t have to face emotions floating beneath the surface? Do you need words of comfort and encouragement to remind you that this feeling will pass in time? Writing is a great way to explore the inner world and put into words the things and feeling that are hard to face.
The power of writing can be really great. Here are some examples of how writing can help you cope and feel better.
1. When thoughts and feelings are put into words on paper their bustling starts to ease. Writing can be a way to organise your own head and thoughts – and it calms you down.
2. Writing can distance you from even difficult things. Distance, in turn, helps to feel calmer and look at things from a new angle. It may even feel like strong emotions or experiences are no longer crushing underneath.
3. Writing can help clear out distracting thoughts that distract all attention and prevent you from focusing on the rest.
4. Writing can help figure out why you feel a certain way or what you really want to do in your life.
Dare to face the uncomfortable. What would you not want to write about? What thing or feeling you want to avoid or avoid until the last? Pick a thing that seems hard and write about it. Be honest. Remember that you are only writing for yourself.
5. Give your emotions a permission. Is there a feeling inside you that you can’t name? Write exactly as described: How does it feel? Where do you feel it? How long have you felt it inside you? Where do you think the feeling comes from? What could you do if the feeling dared to come out? Remember, all your feelings are allowed.
6. When you write to yourself, commas, conjunctions, dyslexia, or anyone else’s opinions have no meaning. All that matters is how your own text effects you.
When writing, let the text come freely without censoring anything or thinking too much. Don’t worry about spelling or handwriting. Remember, you are only writing for yourself.
The most important thing is not how much or how well you write but what is true for you in the moment. Finally, read what you have written and, if you wish, pick out the most important things for yourself in a sentence or two.
Say to yourself the words you need. Recall a moment in your life when you felt like you wouldn’t survive, but you did survive nonetheless. What comforting would you say now for that moment? Write down your thoughts. Now say the comforting words out to yourself. They are always with you.
Vilhelmiina Välimäki is a Clinical Psychologist at Willingness Clinic. She works both with children and adults. You can contact her on vilhelmiina@willingness.com.mt or on 79291817