Journal Your Way to Inner Peace: Here's How

image of a woman journaling

If you’re new to journaling, it can feel daunting staring at a blank page, unsure what to write or how to begin the first sentence. It's a common feeling, but don't let it stop you from trying this powerful practice. Journaling has been studied extensively and has been shown to have a range of benefits for our mental health.

Here are three reasons why you should try this self-care practice:


Make Sense Of Your Thoughts and Feelings

woman sitting on stairs looking into the distancePhoto by Candice Picard on Unsplash

It can be helpful to literally and figuratively let go of those thoughts and feelings. By putting them on paper, you are releasing them from your mind and body.

By looking at them and identifying them, it helps us sort through what can feel like a jumbled mess in our minds.

This is also a great way to share your thoughts without judgment. The beautiful thing about writing things down is that whatever you write won’t be judged by anyone else.

Document the Progress You’ve Made

the words write without fear on a white ceramic blocka white box with writing on it next to a plantPhoto by hannah grace on Unsplash

Journaling can help us document memories or certain times in our lives. Imagine looking back on when things in life were worse or you struggled with your mental health and being able to be grateful for how you’ve evolved since then.

It Can Help You in Your Grief

woman in white crew-neck T-shirt holding her head


Photo by Radu Florin on Unsplash

Grieving the death of someone can feel very isolating. You may not know what to think of the emotions you’re experiencing. Guided journals can be a great way to help you process your grief.

Where do I start?

If you are unsure if journaling is for you, consider a journal with prompts. Prompts can be questions or statements that inspire us to think and encourage us to write. Below are two prompts to get you started:

  1. What have I been holding in and keeping to myself?
  2. What am I most worried about right now? What would it look like if I woke up tomorrow and my biggest worry was solved?

Discovering the healing power of journaling can be a transformative journey, especially when faced with grief and loss. Guided grief journals such as "Grief: Flowing Through Life after Loss" offer a companion through the challenging process of grief, providing a safe space to express what has been held inside and allowing for a deeper understanding of your thoughts and feelings.
Grief: Flowing Through Life After Loss: Dolor: Seguir Adelante Despues de Perder

Journey Beyond the Journal

woman with long dark curled hair looks to camera with the words "A practical guide to gried and healing" next to herGrief and Healing

Just like journaling helps us make sense of our thoughts and feelings, our A Practical Guide to Grief and Healing Video Series in the Luz Community offers an insightful experience that can help you navigate the complexities of grief. Yolanda, our guide, will provide useful tips and support to help you process your emotions and find comfort during difficult times.

In this three-part video series, she provides valuable insights and practical strategies for coping with grief and loss. Let this video series be your companion as you navigate life after loss, offering valuable tools to help you find hope and renewal.

L.A. County Sheriffs forcibly remove Aurora Vargas from her home
USC Libraries. Los Angeles Examiner Collection, 1920-1961

A new bill introduced in the California Legislature aims to address a historical injustice by seeking reparations for families who were forcibly displaced from their homes in Los Angeles in the 1950s to make way for what is now the Dodger Stadium. The proposed legislation, named the “Chavez Ravine Accountability Act”, represents a significant step toward acknowledging and rectifying the harm done to the Mexican American community.

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