Page 40 - Kick-AssWellnessHandbook_eBook

Pennebaker believes
that writing about
stressful times and

events can help us
deal with reality better
and reduce the impact
that the stress has on

our health. After all,
that stress has to go
somewhere, right? Holding in stress and pain is like not sweating—
it can be disastrous. Additional research demonstrates that

journaling may decrease symptoms of some chronic conditions,
including rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.

How well do you know yourself? Journaling helps you get in touch

with who you truly are. You may be very surprised to meet yourself
in the words that you write. It can also be a great deal of fun. Learn
what makes you happy, sad, angry, and lonely.

Writing thoughts down also helps you to understand situations that
are difficult or need addressing in your life. When you journal, you
will be amazed at all of the rational, well-thought-out solutions that
you have to issues that formerly confused you. You may even go

back later on to read some of your entries and say: “Did I really
write that?”

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