Self-Care Sunday: Journaling Has Unexpectedly Been Making Me Feel More Centered

POPSUGAR Photography | Paul Kabata
POPSUGAR Photography | Paul Kabata
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I was that kid who loved going shopping for school supplies. I'm a sucker for a great notebook, and I definitely have pens I like and pens I don't like. When I see a cute notebook, sometimes I grab it, even though I usually write things down on my phone or computer. Well, this past weekend I was feeling a bit stagnant. I had so many thoughts running in my head, and I knew I had to express my emotions in some way. After having a conversation with my parents, I had the sudden urge to write my thoughts down, but I knew I couldn't just open my Notes app. I had to actually take pen to paper.

I grabbed one of my pretty colored pens (the purple one, to be exact) and a journal I keep by my bed that hadn't been opened in months, if not years. I always hear about the power of journaling from some of my favorite wellness influencers, but frankly, I thought it was trivial. However, there is something about physically writing down your thoughts that makes them that much more tangible, and that much more likely to actually stick in your mind. Plus, writing with a colored pen is fun. Now, my notebook is getting filled up again, and I'll probably need another one soon. With all our minds going a million different places at once, it's easy to neglect some self-care, but this is probably one of the simplest acts I can think of that allows me to prioritize my mental health. Writing down my thoughts makes them feel less overwhelming and allows me to make sense of my emotions. I really didn't think it could be this simple. If you're feeling like you need a moment of self-care, grab a pen and paper.

Shady Grove Notebooks Marble & Gold Journal
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Shady Grove Notebooks Marble & Gold Journal

We'd take any excuse to write in this Shady Grove Notebooks Marble & Gold Journal ($8).

Pentel Arts Sparkle Pop Metallic Gel Ink Pens
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Pentel Arts Sparkle Pop Metallic Gel Ink Pens

These fun Pentel Arts Sparkle Pop Metallic Gel Ink Pens ($13 for a pack of eight, originally $16) will make you smile.

Rifle Paper Co. Wild Rose Stitched Notebook Set
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Rifle Paper Co. Wild Rose Stitched Notebook Set

This Rifle Paper Co. Wild Rose Stitched Notebook Set ($15) is a great option to have on hand because there's so much space to write with.

Wit & Delight Note to Self
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Wit & Delight Note to Self

This little Wit & Delight Note to Self ($14) notebook will look so pretty on your nightstand.

Stabilo Point 88 Fineliner Pens
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Stabilo Point 88 Fineliner Pens

These Stabilo Point 88 Fineliner Pens ($16 for a pack of 30) are easy to write with and come in so many different colors.

The Five-Minute Journal
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The Five-Minute Journal

If you need help knowing where to start, try The Five-Minute Journal ($25). It's got guided templates to help you organize what you want to say and start a journaling habit.

Graphique Lemon Hardbound Journal
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Graphique Lemon Hardbound Journal

This Graphique Lemon Hardbound Journal ($12) is sunny and makes us smile.

Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens
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Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens

These Paper Mate Flair Felt Tip Pens ($12 for a pack of 12) are my preferred pens. They have a marker-like feel, and I love writing with them.