December 8, 2024 • 16 mins
50 Journal Prompts for Healing
Discover the transformative power of journaling as a healing tool with us today. What if the key to unlocking your emotional well-being lies in the pages of a notebook? We promise you'll learn how structured prompts can guide you through stages of healing, from processing buried emotions to embracing a hopeful future with newfound resilience. By bringing suppressed feelings to light, you can begin to understand the connection between past experiences and current emotional states, all while fostering a sense of self-compassion and curiosity. Our discussion will equip you with the tools needed to cultivate self-awareness and a kinder inner dialogue.
Our journey through this episode also highlights the profound impact of journaling in cultivating peace within daily life. Through prompts encouraging self-exploration, you can identify what peace truly means to you and the steps required to achieve it. We'll guide you in understanding how to replace that inner critic with kindness, setting boundaries to protect your energy, and translating aspirations into actionable steps that align with your values. Whether you're new to journaling or an avid writer, you'll find reassurance and encouragement that helps transform the intimidating process of writing into a personal blueprint for a peaceful and harmonious life.
LeStallion offers premium PU leather journal notebooks for writing, dedicated to all those who are pursuing their dreams and goals, or nurturing their personal development and mental health.
For More Info on LeStallion, check out:
https://lestallion.com/
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Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
All right.
So you know, our listeners arealways looking for ways to sort
of go deeper and, you know,really explore these topics that
we touch on, and one thing thatcomes up a lot is journaling.
Speaker 2 (00:09):
Uh-huh.
Speaker 1 (00:10):
You said over this article from La Stallion.
It's called 50 Journal Promptsfor Healing and I was looking
through this and just the wayit's organized, like right off
the bat, it's so interestingbecause it's not just you know,
here's 50 random prompts, youknow it's actually grouped by
stages of healing Right.
So I thought maybe we couldstart there, like what is the
thinking behind it?
Like why would someonestructure prompts in that way?
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Well, I think it speaks to the power of
journaling for healing, thatit's not just about venting
emotions on paper, you knowRight.
There's a process there thatcan guide you through different
phases and lead you towards youknow, there's a process there
that can guide you throughdifferent phases and lead you
towards, you know, a sense ofpeace and well-being.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
Ok, so let's break down like some of these stages
then.
So the first one is processingemotions, and they've got some
really interesting prompts inthis section, like write about
an emotion you've been avoidingand think about a time when
anger surfaced unexpectedly.
So why is that?
The first step?
Speaker 2 (01:04):
Well, you can't heal what you don't acknowledge,
right.
Speaker 1 (01:06):
Right.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
So these prompts are about bringing those often
hidden or suppressed emotions tothe surface, so you can start
to understand them better.
Speaker 1 (01:14):
Okay, but just writing about those feelings
isn't that kind of terrifyingfor some people.
Speaker 2 (01:20):
I understand the hesitation, but journaling is a
safe space, you know.
Speaker 1 (01:24):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
It's just you and the page, and research suggests
that simply naming your emotionscan have a calming effect on
your nervous system.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
So it's not even about, you know, trying to
analyze those emotions ordissect them, just acknowledging
that they're there.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Exactly.
It's like saying hey, anger, Isee you there, I'm not going to
run from you.
Speaker 1 (01:44):
Right.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
And that can be really powerful, just that act
of acknowledging.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
Okay.
So once we've kind of processedthose emotions, the next stage
is understanding your past, andthis is where things get really
interesting, right?
Speaker 2 (01:56):
Absolutely, because it's about connecting the dots
between your past experiencesand your current emotional state
.
Yeah, and your currentemotional state.
Prompts like write about adifficult experience from your
past that still lingers, orreflect on how your upbringing
has influenced your emotionalhealth can be so insightful.
Speaker 1 (02:11):
But I mean, is there a danger there of like getting
stuck in the past?
Yeah, you know, rehashing oldwounds.
Speaker 2 (02:16):
Absolutely.
You want to approach theseprompts with self-compassion and
a gentle curiosity.
The goal isn't to dwell in thepain, but to understand how
those experiences might beshaping your present.
Speaker 1 (02:29):
So it's more about kind of gaining perspective,
almost like seeing thoseexperiences through the lens of
your present self.
Speaker 2 (02:34):
Exactly, and that understanding can be so
liberating.
It allows you to move forwardwith more self-awareness and
compassion.
Speaker 1 (02:41):
Okay, so we've processed those emotions, we've
kind of looked at our past.
The next category is fosteringself-compassion, and I feel like
this is something that we allcould use a little more of like
just being kinder to ourselves.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Couldn't agree more, and this stage is crucial
because healing can't happenwithout self-love and acceptance
.
Prompts like write a letter offorgiveness to yourself or think
about a time when you judgedyourself harshly encourage you
to cultivate that inner kindness.
Speaker 1 (03:10):
It's almost like giving yourself permission to be
your own best friend.
Speaker 2 (03:13):
Precisely, and that shift in perspective can be
transformative.
It allows you to break freefrom that negative self-talk and
start to embrace yourimperfections.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
I love that.
Ok, so we've processed ouremotions, explored our past and
started to cultivateself-compassion.
What's next?
Speaker 2 (03:31):
Well, now it's time to start finding hope and
resilience.
Speaker 1 (03:33):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (03:33):
And this is about looking towards the future with
a sense of optimism andpossibility.
Speaker 1 (03:38):
Yeah, some of these prompts are so powerful, like
write about something you'rehopeful for in the future, or
describe a time when you feltlike giving up, but what kept
you going?
Speaker 2 (03:46):
That's really powerful, it's about tapping
into that inner strength andremembering that you've overcome
challenges in the past, rightthat resilience is a powerful
resource and these prompts helpyou to recognize it and
cultivate it.
Speaker 1 (03:58):
It's almost like reminding yourself you've got
this.
You can handle what life throwsat you.
Speaker 2 (04:02):
Exactly, and that sense of empowerment is
essential for moving forwardwith confidence and hope.
Speaker 1 (04:08):
Okay, so we're in the homestretch.
Now the final stage is movingforward with peace.
Speaker 2 (04:12):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:12):
So what does that actually look like in the
context of journaling?
Speaker 2 (04:15):
Well, it's about integrating all the lessons
learned from the previous stagesand envisioning a future where
peace is the foundation.
Okay, prompts Like write abouthow peace feels for you or
describe how you want to liveyour life moving forward Really
get you thinking about what apeaceful life looks and feels
like for you.
Speaker 1 (04:33):
And wouldn't you say that peace is such a different
concept for everyone?
Speaker 2 (04:37):
Absolutely.
There's no one size fits alldefinition.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Right.
Speaker 2 (04:40):
So these prompts encourage you to define what
peace means to you personally,and then start taking those
concrete steps toward creating alife that embodies that peace.
Speaker 1 (04:49):
So it's not just a feeling, it's an active choice.
Speaker 2 (04:51):
Precisely, and that's why this structured approach to
journaling is so powerful.
It guides you through thatprocess of self-discovery, you
know, helping you to uncoveryour own unique path to peace.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
I'm so inspired, I got to say, to dust off my old
journal and try some of theseprompts.
But I always found journaling abit intimidating.
Speaker 2 (05:08):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (05:09):
What advice would you give someone who's new to this
and feeling a little overwhelmed?
Speaker 2 (05:13):
That's a really common feeling, so don't worry,
remember, there's no right orwrong way to journal.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
So no pressure to like write a novel every day.
Speaker 2 (05:20):
Definitely not start small.
Even five minutes a day can beincredibly beneficial and
remember this is your safe space.
Speaker 1 (05:27):
Yeah, it's for your eyes only.
No judgment allowed.
Speaker 2 (05:30):
Exactly.
Don't censor yourself, don'tworry about what anyone else
might think.
Just let your thoughts andfeelings flow.
Speaker 1 (05:35):
I think that fear of judgment is what holds a lot of
people back from even trying.
Speaker 2 (05:39):
It's a common hurdle, but once you overcome that,
you'll discover the incrediblepower of journaling as a tool
for self-discovery and healing.
Be kind to yourself, be curiousand trust the process.
Hashtag TTS the deep dive,episode 2024, 1115, part two of
three.
It's really fascinating.
You know how journaling, thissimple act of you know, putting
(06:01):
pen to paper, can actuallyrewire our brains for the better
.
Speaker 1 (06:04):
Yeah, now that you mention that you know I have
heard about the benefits ofjournaling, for you know things
like anxiety and depression.
Can you talk a little bit moreabout that?
Speaker 2 (06:14):
Yeah, absolutely so.
When we journal, especiallywith prompts that encourage, you
know, that self-reflection andemotional processing, we're
actually activating theprefrontal cortex, which is the
part of our brain that'sresponsible for, you know,
planning and decision making andemotional regulation.
Speaker 1 (06:30):
So it's like a workout, but for your brain
instead of your muscles.
Speaker 2 (06:33):
That's a great way to put it.
And the more we engage in thiskind of reflective writing, you
know, the stronger those neuralpathways become, and that leads
to better emotional regulation,increased self-awareness and,
you know, even reduced symptomsof anxiety and depression.
So it really is so much morethan just, you know, venting or
complaining.
It's really a tool for growth,exactly, and it's not just the
(06:54):
science either.
There's something inherentlytherapeutic about the act of
writing itself right you know.
It allows us to slow down,connect with our inner thoughts
and feelings and process ourexperiences in a way that
talking sometimes can't.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
Yeah, I totally get that.
Sometimes, when I'm strugglingwith something, even just
writing it down helps me to makesense of it.
Speaker 2 (07:11):
Absolutely.
It's like taking all thosejumbled up thoughts and emotions
and putting them in order.
Yeah, journaling provides aspace for us to explore those
thoughts and feelings, you know,without judgment or
interruption.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
It's like having a conversation with yourself, but
on paper.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (07:27):
So we've talked about the benefits of journaling,
we've talked about thesedifferent stages of healing that
these prompts kind of take youthrough.
But how can someone actuallyuse these prompts to cultivate
peace in their everyday life?
Speaker 2 (07:39):
That's a great question.
I think one of the mostpowerful things about these
prompts is that they encourageyou to you know, take an active
role in your own healing.
It's not just passivereflection.
You know, these are invitationsto explore, to question, to
really challenge yourself.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
So it's not just writing it down, but it's using
those reflections to makepositive changes.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Exactly.
For example, you know, one ofthe prompts is write about how
peace feels for you.
That's not just, you know, awhimsical exercise.
That's about identifying whatpeace means to you.
Speaker 1 (08:11):
Right.
Speaker 2 (08:12):
What does it look like, what does if feel like in
your life, and once you havethat clarity, then you can start
to with toxic people orspending more time in nature or,
you know, practicingmindfulness.
Whatever it is, the act ofjournaling helps bring those
(08:32):
desires into focus, so theybecome more tangible and
achievable.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
I'm curious how does understanding the past through
journaling contribute to thissense of peace?
It seems like focusing on pasthurts could stir up more
negativity.
Speaker 2 (08:47):
Yeah, that's a valid concern and it's important to
approach those prompts withself-compassion.
The goal isn't to dwell on thepain, but to acknowledge those
experiences and understand howthey might be shaping your
present.
It's about bringing thosehidden wounds to the surface so
you can start to heal them.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
So just the act of acknowledging those past hurts
can be liberating.
Speaker 2 (09:05):
Exactly.
It's like releasing a pressurevalve.
Speaker 1 (09:08):
And what about self-compassion?
How does that factor into, youknow, the journey toward peace?
Speaker 2 (09:13):
Self-compassion is essential.
I mean, think about it.
If you're constantly beatingyourself up over past mistakes
or holding yourself to theseunrealistic standards, how can
you ever experience true innerpeace?
Speaker 1 (09:26):
It's like having that inner critic, you know,
constantly whispering negativethoughts.
Speaker 2 (09:34):
Exactly, and those negative thoughts create a lot
of inner turmoil.
But when we cultivateself-compassion, we start to
silence that inner critic andreplace it with a voice of
kindness and understanding.
Speaker 1 (09:42):
So it's about treating yourself with the same
care and empathy that you wouldoffer a loved one.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
Precisely, and as you practice that inner kindness,
you create a more peacefulinternal environment, which then
radiates outwards into yourrelationships and your overall
well-being.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
So, understanding the past, cultivating
self-compassion, finding hopeand resilience, it's all these
interconnected pieces of thepeace puzzle.
Speaker 2 (10:01):
Absolutely.
They're like the foundationupon which you build a life
filled with peace and purpose.
Speaker 1 (10:06):
And these journal prompts act as guides to help
you navigate that.
Speaker 2 (10:10):
Exactly, they're like little signposts along the way.
Speaker 1 (10:12):
I want to talk a little bit more about the
prompts themselves.
I'm really drawn to the ones inthe moving forward with peace
category.
They just have this beautifulsense of intentionality about
them.
Speaker 2 (10:23):
I agree.
They encourage you to definewhat peace looks and feels like
for you personally.
How do you want to show up inthe world?
What kind of energy do you wantto cultivate?
Speaker 1 (10:32):
It's like creating a blueprint for a peaceful life.
Speaker 2 (10:35):
Exactly, and it's not just about you know, lofty
ideals.
These prompts encourage you totake practical steps.
Okay, what habits can youcultivate?
What boundaries do you need toset?
Speaker 1 (10:47):
So translating those aspirations into actions.
Speaker 2 (10:50):
Precisely.
It's about creating a life thatreflects your deepest values
and supports your well-being.
Speaker 1 (10:56):
It's not just about writing for the sake of writing.
It's about using it as a toolfor transformation.
Speaker 2 (11:00):
You're spot on.
These prompts aren't meant tobe passively answered.
They're meant to spark deeperreflection, inspire action and
guide you towards a morepeaceful and fulfilling
existence.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
I'm already brainstorming ways to
incorporate these prompts intomy own journaling.
Speaker 2 (11:16):
That's wonderful.
And remember it's a journey,not a destination.
Be patient with yourself,embrace the process and trust
that with each entry you'removing closer to that peace that
you seek.
Speaker 1 (11:28):
Before we wrap up this part of our deep dive, I
wanted to touch on something youmentioned earlier about the
importance of setting boundariesin the pursuit of peace.
Can you elaborate on that alittle bit?
Speaker 2 (11:39):
Certainly, boundaries are essential for protecting
your energy and creating thatsense of inner harmony.
You know, when you have clearboundaries, you're essentially
saying yes to what nourishes youand no to what depletes you.
So it's about knowing what youneed to thrive and having the
courage to protect that spaceExactly.
It's about being selective withyour time, energy and emotional
investments, and this mightinvolve saying no to commitments
(12:00):
that drain you, limitingcontact with negative people or
simply carving out time foryourself to recharge.
Speaker 1 (12:07):
So boundaries are a form of self-care.
Speaker 2 (12:09):
They absolutely are, and they're crucial for
cultivating that sense of innerpeace.
When you're constantlyoverextending yourself or
allowing others to takeadvantage of your time and
energy, it creates resentmentand imbalance.
Speaker 1 (12:22):
So setting boundaries isn't selfish, it's an act of
self-preservation.
Speaker 2 (12:26):
Precisely.
It's about honoring your needsand creating a life that
supports your well-being.
Speaker 1 (12:31):
This is such a powerful reminder.
I think a lot of peoplestruggle with setting boundaries
, especially, you know, peoplepleasers.
Speaker 2 (12:37):
It's definitely a skill that takes practice, but
the rewards are so worth it.
When you have healthyboundaries, you're not only
protecting your peace, butyou're creating a more balanced
and fulfilling life.
Speaker 1 (12:49):
This has been such an enlightening conversation.
I feel like I'm gaining a wholenew understanding of what it
means to cultivate peace bothinternally and externally.
Speaker 2 (12:57):
I'm so glad to hear that and remember the journey
toward peace is a personal one.
Speaker 1 (13:01):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (13:01):
There's no right or wrong way to approach it.
Speaker 1 (13:03):
It's about finding what works for you and having
the courage to create a lifethat reflects your values.
Speaker 2 (13:09):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (13:16):
And you know these journal prompts are wonderful
tools to support you along theway.
Well, I am definitely feelinginspired to start journaling my
way to peace.
We're going to take anotherquick break when we return.
I want to wrap up this deepdive by focusing on the
practical application of theseprompts.
What are some tangibletakeaways that our listeners can
implement in their own lives?
What are some tangibletakeaways that our listeners can
implement in their own lives?
Hashtag DTS the Deep Diveepisode 2024, 1115, part three
(13:37):
of three.
Welcome back to our Deep Dive.
You know we've been talkingabout these 50 journal prompts
for healing and I think we'vereally explored the power of
journaling and how those promptscan guide you through.
You know different stages, butlet's talk about putting this
into practice.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
Yeah, and I think it can feel a bit overwhelming, you
know, when you first look atthat list of 50 prompts where do
I even begin?
Speaker 1 (13:57):
Right, it's like staring at a blank page.
Speaker 2 (13:59):
Exactly so.
My first piece of advice wouldbe you know, choose a prompt
that speaks to you in thismoment.
Don't feel pressured to go inorder.
You know, just trust yourintuition.
Pick one that resonates.
Speaker 1 (14:09):
So if you're feeling drawn to the self-compassion
prompts, start there.
If it's understanding your past, go for it Exactly.
Speaker 2 (14:16):
And the key is, you know, make it a regular practice
.
You don't have to spend hoursjournaling every day.
You know, even five or tenminutes can make a difference.
Speaker 1 (14:23):
So it's consistency rather than quantity.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
Absolutely, and don't overthink it.
You know there's no right orwrong way to journal.
Overthink it.
You know there's no right orwrong way to journal.
It's not about grammar orperfect sentences.
Just let your thoughts andfeelings flow.
Speaker 1 (14:34):
It's your space to be messy, to be real.
Speaker 2 (14:37):
Exactly and, as you write, pay attention to any
recurring themes or patternsthat emerge.
Speaker 1 (14:43):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (14:43):
Those can offer some really valuable insights into
what's going on, you know,beneath the surface.
Speaker 1 (14:49):
It's like those aha moments when you realize
something about yourself youhadn't really thought about
before.
Speaker 2 (14:53):
Precisely, and don't be afraid to delve deeper into
those insights.
Ask yourself what does thisreveal about me?
How can I use this knowledge toheal and grow?
Speaker 1 (15:02):
So it's not just about the writing but the
reflection and making thoseconnections.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
Exactly, and be patient with yourself.
Healing takes time.
There's no need to rush it.
Speaker 1 (15:10):
It's a journey.
Speaker 2 (15:11):
Absolutely.
And as you move along thatjourney, celebrate your progress
.
Speaker 1 (15:16):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (15:16):
Acknowledge your you know those small victories.
Give yourself credit for theeffort that you're putting in.
Speaker 1 (15:26):
That's so important because I think it's easy to get
caught up in what we haven'taccomplished yet and forget to
appreciate how far we've come.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
You're absolutely right.
And one final thought rememberthat you're not alone on this
journey.
You know there are so manyresources available to support
you, whether it's a therapist ora support group or even just a
trusted friend.
Don't hesitate to reach out forhelp if you need it.
Speaker 1 (15:45):
Sometimes, just knowing that you're not alone
can make such a difference.
Speaker 2 (15:47):
It really can.
And as you explore thesejournal prompts and start to you
know, connect with that innerwisdom, remember this you have
everything you need within youto heal and to thrive.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
This has been so inspiring.
I think we've really had a deepdive into you know the power of
journaling and thank you somuch for sharing your expertise
with us.
Speaker 2 (16:05):
It's been my pleasure .
Speaker 1 (16:06):
And for our listeners .
As we wrap up, think back onall the prompts that we
discussed today.
Which one resonated with youthe most, and what might writing
about that particular promptreveal about your own journey
toward healing?
Thanks for joining us for thisdeep dive.
We'll see you next time.
Until then,
All right.
So you know, our listeners arealways looking for ways to sort
of go deeper and, you know,really explore these topics that
we touch on, and one thing thatcomes up a lot is journaling.
Speaker 2 (00:09):
Uh-huh.
Speaker 1 (00:10):
You said over this article from La Stallion.
It's called 50 Journal Promptsfor Healing and I was looking
through this and just the wayit's organized, like right off
the bat, it's so interestingbecause it's not just you know,
here's 50 random prompts, youknow it's actually grouped by
stages of healing Right.
So I thought maybe we couldstart there, like what is the
thinking behind it?
Like why would someonestructure prompts in that way?
Speaker 2 (00:32):
Well, I think it speaks to the power of
journaling for healing, thatit's not just about venting
emotions on paper, you knowRight.
There's a process there thatcan guide you through different
phases and lead you towards youknow, there's a process there
that can guide you throughdifferent phases and lead you
towards, you know, a sense ofpeace and well-being.
Speaker 1 (00:49):
Ok, so let's break down like some of these stages
then.
So the first one is processingemotions, and they've got some
really interesting prompts inthis section, like write about
an emotion you've been avoidingand think about a time when
anger surfaced unexpectedly.
So why is that?
The first step?
Speaker 2 (01:04):
Well, you can't heal what you don't acknowledge,
right.
Speaker 1 (01:06):
Right.
Speaker 2 (01:07):
So these prompts are about bringing those often
hidden or suppressed emotions tothe surface, so you can start
to understand them better.
Speaker 1 (01:14):
Okay, but just writing about those feelings
isn't that kind of terrifyingfor some people.
Speaker 2 (01:20):
I understand the hesitation, but journaling is a
safe space, you know.
Speaker 1 (01:24):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (01:24):
It's just you and the page, and research suggests
that simply naming your emotionscan have a calming effect on
your nervous system.
Speaker 1 (01:33):
So it's not even about, you know, trying to
analyze those emotions ordissect them, just acknowledging
that they're there.
Speaker 2 (01:40):
Exactly.
It's like saying hey, anger, Isee you there, I'm not going to
run from you.
Speaker 1 (01:44):
Right.
Speaker 2 (01:44):
And that can be really powerful, just that act
of acknowledging.
Speaker 1 (01:47):
Okay.
So once we've kind of processedthose emotions, the next stage
is understanding your past, andthis is where things get really
interesting, right?
Speaker 2 (01:56):
Absolutely, because it's about connecting the dots
between your past experiencesand your current emotional state
.
Yeah, and your currentemotional state.
Prompts like write about adifficult experience from your
past that still lingers, orreflect on how your upbringing
has influenced your emotionalhealth can be so insightful.
Speaker 1 (02:11):
But I mean, is there a danger there of like getting
stuck in the past?
Yeah, you know, rehashing oldwounds.
Speaker 2 (02:16):
Absolutely.
You want to approach theseprompts with self-compassion and
a gentle curiosity.
The goal isn't to dwell in thepain, but to understand how
those experiences might beshaping your present.
Speaker 1 (02:29):
So it's more about kind of gaining perspective,
almost like seeing thoseexperiences through the lens of
your present self.
Speaker 2 (02:34):
Exactly, and that understanding can be so
liberating.
It allows you to move forwardwith more self-awareness and
compassion.
Speaker 1 (02:41):
Okay, so we've processed those emotions, we've
kind of looked at our past.
The next category is fosteringself-compassion, and I feel like
this is something that we allcould use a little more of like
just being kinder to ourselves.
Speaker 2 (02:54):
Couldn't agree more, and this stage is crucial
because healing can't happenwithout self-love and acceptance
.
Prompts like write a letter offorgiveness to yourself or think
about a time when you judgedyourself harshly encourage you
to cultivate that inner kindness.
Speaker 1 (03:10):
It's almost like giving yourself permission to be
your own best friend.
Speaker 2 (03:13):
Precisely, and that shift in perspective can be
transformative.
It allows you to break freefrom that negative self-talk and
start to embrace yourimperfections.
Speaker 1 (03:23):
I love that.
Ok, so we've processed ouremotions, explored our past and
started to cultivateself-compassion.
What's next?
Speaker 2 (03:31):
Well, now it's time to start finding hope and
resilience.
Speaker 1 (03:33):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (03:33):
And this is about looking towards the future with
a sense of optimism andpossibility.
Speaker 1 (03:38):
Yeah, some of these prompts are so powerful, like
write about something you'rehopeful for in the future, or
describe a time when you feltlike giving up, but what kept
you going?
Speaker 2 (03:46):
That's really powerful, it's about tapping
into that inner strength andremembering that you've overcome
challenges in the past, rightthat resilience is a powerful
resource and these prompts helpyou to recognize it and
cultivate it.
Speaker 1 (03:58):
It's almost like reminding yourself you've got
this.
You can handle what life throwsat you.
Speaker 2 (04:02):
Exactly, and that sense of empowerment is
essential for moving forwardwith confidence and hope.
Speaker 1 (04:08):
Okay, so we're in the homestretch.
Now the final stage is movingforward with peace.
Speaker 2 (04:12):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (04:12):
So what does that actually look like in the
context of journaling?
Speaker 2 (04:15):
Well, it's about integrating all the lessons
learned from the previous stagesand envisioning a future where
peace is the foundation.
Okay, prompts Like write abouthow peace feels for you or
describe how you want to liveyour life moving forward Really
get you thinking about what apeaceful life looks and feels
like for you.
Speaker 1 (04:33):
And wouldn't you say that peace is such a different
concept for everyone?
Speaker 2 (04:37):
Absolutely.
There's no one size fits alldefinition.
Speaker 1 (04:40):
Right.
Speaker 2 (04:40):
So these prompts encourage you to define what
peace means to you personally,and then start taking those
concrete steps toward creating alife that embodies that peace.
Speaker 1 (04:49):
So it's not just a feeling, it's an active choice.
Speaker 2 (04:51):
Precisely, and that's why this structured approach to
journaling is so powerful.
It guides you through thatprocess of self-discovery, you
know, helping you to uncoveryour own unique path to peace.
Speaker 1 (05:01):
I'm so inspired, I got to say, to dust off my old
journal and try some of theseprompts.
But I always found journaling abit intimidating.
Speaker 2 (05:08):
Yeah.
Speaker 1 (05:09):
What advice would you give someone who's new to this
and feeling a little overwhelmed?
Speaker 2 (05:13):
That's a really common feeling, so don't worry,
remember, there's no right orwrong way to journal.
Speaker 1 (05:18):
So no pressure to like write a novel every day.
Speaker 2 (05:20):
Definitely not start small.
Even five minutes a day can beincredibly beneficial and
remember this is your safe space.
Speaker 1 (05:27):
Yeah, it's for your eyes only.
No judgment allowed.
Speaker 2 (05:30):
Exactly.
Don't censor yourself, don'tworry about what anyone else
might think.
Just let your thoughts andfeelings flow.
Speaker 1 (05:35):
I think that fear of judgment is what holds a lot of
people back from even trying.
Speaker 2 (05:39):
It's a common hurdle, but once you overcome that,
you'll discover the incrediblepower of journaling as a tool
for self-discovery and healing.
Be kind to yourself, be curiousand trust the process.
Hashtag TTS the deep dive,episode 2024, 1115, part two of
three.
It's really fascinating.
You know how journaling, thissimple act of you know, putting
(06:01):
pen to paper, can actuallyrewire our brains for the better
.
Speaker 1 (06:04):
Yeah, now that you mention that you know I have
heard about the benefits ofjournaling, for you know things
like anxiety and depression.
Can you talk a little bit moreabout that?
Speaker 2 (06:14):
Yeah, absolutely so.
When we journal, especiallywith prompts that encourage, you
know, that self-reflection andemotional processing, we're
actually activating theprefrontal cortex, which is the
part of our brain that'sresponsible for, you know,
planning and decision making andemotional regulation.
Speaker 1 (06:30):
So it's like a workout, but for your brain
instead of your muscles.
Speaker 2 (06:33):
That's a great way to put it.
And the more we engage in thiskind of reflective writing, you
know, the stronger those neuralpathways become, and that leads
to better emotional regulation,increased self-awareness and,
you know, even reduced symptomsof anxiety and depression.
So it really is so much morethan just, you know, venting or
complaining.
It's really a tool for growth,exactly, and it's not just the
(06:54):
science either.
There's something inherentlytherapeutic about the act of
writing itself right you know.
It allows us to slow down,connect with our inner thoughts
and feelings and process ourexperiences in a way that
talking sometimes can't.
Speaker 1 (07:06):
Yeah, I totally get that.
Sometimes, when I'm strugglingwith something, even just
writing it down helps me to makesense of it.
Speaker 2 (07:11):
Absolutely.
It's like taking all thosejumbled up thoughts and emotions
and putting them in order.
Yeah, journaling provides aspace for us to explore those
thoughts and feelings, you know,without judgment or
interruption.
Speaker 1 (07:24):
It's like having a conversation with yourself, but
on paper.
Speaker 2 (07:26):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (07:27):
So we've talked about the benefits of journaling,
we've talked about thesedifferent stages of healing that
these prompts kind of take youthrough.
But how can someone actuallyuse these prompts to cultivate
peace in their everyday life?
Speaker 2 (07:39):
That's a great question.
I think one of the mostpowerful things about these
prompts is that they encourageyou to you know, take an active
role in your own healing.
It's not just passivereflection.
You know, these are invitationsto explore, to question, to
really challenge yourself.
Speaker 1 (07:56):
So it's not just writing it down, but it's using
those reflections to makepositive changes.
Speaker 2 (08:01):
Exactly.
For example, you know, one ofthe prompts is write about how
peace feels for you.
That's not just, you know, awhimsical exercise.
That's about identifying whatpeace means to you.
Speaker 1 (08:11):
Right.
Speaker 2 (08:12):
What does it look like, what does if feel like in
your life, and once you havethat clarity, then you can start
to with toxic people orspending more time in nature or,
you know, practicingmindfulness.
Whatever it is, the act ofjournaling helps bring those
(08:32):
desires into focus, so theybecome more tangible and
achievable.
Speaker 1 (08:36):
I'm curious how does understanding the past through
journaling contribute to thissense of peace?
It seems like focusing on pasthurts could stir up more
negativity.
Speaker 2 (08:47):
Yeah, that's a valid concern and it's important to
approach those prompts withself-compassion.
The goal isn't to dwell on thepain, but to acknowledge those
experiences and understand howthey might be shaping your
present.
It's about bringing thosehidden wounds to the surface so
you can start to heal them.
Speaker 1 (09:01):
So just the act of acknowledging those past hurts
can be liberating.
Speaker 2 (09:05):
Exactly.
It's like releasing a pressurevalve.
Speaker 1 (09:08):
And what about self-compassion?
How does that factor into, youknow, the journey toward peace?
Speaker 2 (09:13):
Self-compassion is essential.
I mean, think about it.
If you're constantly beatingyourself up over past mistakes
or holding yourself to theseunrealistic standards, how can
you ever experience true innerpeace?
Speaker 1 (09:26):
It's like having that inner critic, you know,
constantly whispering negativethoughts.
Speaker 2 (09:34):
Exactly, and those negative thoughts create a lot
of inner turmoil.
But when we cultivateself-compassion, we start to
silence that inner critic andreplace it with a voice of
kindness and understanding.
Speaker 1 (09:42):
So it's about treating yourself with the same
care and empathy that you wouldoffer a loved one.
Speaker 2 (09:45):
Precisely, and as you practice that inner kindness,
you create a more peacefulinternal environment, which then
radiates outwards into yourrelationships and your overall
well-being.
Speaker 1 (09:54):
So, understanding the past, cultivating
self-compassion, finding hopeand resilience, it's all these
interconnected pieces of thepeace puzzle.
Speaker 2 (10:01):
Absolutely.
They're like the foundationupon which you build a life
filled with peace and purpose.
Speaker 1 (10:06):
And these journal prompts act as guides to help
you navigate that.
Speaker 2 (10:10):
Exactly, they're like little signposts along the way.
Speaker 1 (10:12):
I want to talk a little bit more about the
prompts themselves.
I'm really drawn to the ones inthe moving forward with peace
category.
They just have this beautifulsense of intentionality about
them.
Speaker 2 (10:23):
I agree.
They encourage you to definewhat peace looks and feels like
for you personally.
How do you want to show up inthe world?
What kind of energy do you wantto cultivate?
Speaker 1 (10:32):
It's like creating a blueprint for a peaceful life.
Speaker 2 (10:35):
Exactly, and it's not just about you know, lofty
ideals.
These prompts encourage you totake practical steps.
Okay, what habits can youcultivate?
What boundaries do you need toset?
Speaker 1 (10:47):
So translating those aspirations into actions.
Speaker 2 (10:50):
Precisely.
It's about creating a life thatreflects your deepest values
and supports your well-being.
Speaker 1 (10:56):
It's not just about writing for the sake of writing.
It's about using it as a toolfor transformation.
Speaker 2 (11:00):
You're spot on.
These prompts aren't meant tobe passively answered.
They're meant to spark deeperreflection, inspire action and
guide you towards a morepeaceful and fulfilling
existence.
Speaker 1 (11:12):
I'm already brainstorming ways to
incorporate these prompts intomy own journaling.
Speaker 2 (11:16):
That's wonderful.
And remember it's a journey,not a destination.
Be patient with yourself,embrace the process and trust
that with each entry you'removing closer to that peace that
you seek.
Speaker 1 (11:28):
Before we wrap up this part of our deep dive, I
wanted to touch on something youmentioned earlier about the
importance of setting boundariesin the pursuit of peace.
Can you elaborate on that alittle bit?
Speaker 2 (11:39):
Certainly, boundaries are essential for protecting
your energy and creating thatsense of inner harmony.
You know, when you have clearboundaries, you're essentially
saying yes to what nourishes youand no to what depletes you.
So it's about knowing what youneed to thrive and having the
courage to protect that spaceExactly.
It's about being selective withyour time, energy and emotional
investments, and this mightinvolve saying no to commitments
(12:00):
that drain you, limitingcontact with negative people or
simply carving out time foryourself to recharge.
Speaker 1 (12:07):
So boundaries are a form of self-care.
Speaker 2 (12:09):
They absolutely are, and they're crucial for
cultivating that sense of innerpeace.
When you're constantlyoverextending yourself or
allowing others to takeadvantage of your time and
energy, it creates resentmentand imbalance.
Speaker 1 (12:22):
So setting boundaries isn't selfish, it's an act of
self-preservation.
Speaker 2 (12:26):
Precisely.
It's about honoring your needsand creating a life that
supports your well-being.
Speaker 1 (12:31):
This is such a powerful reminder.
I think a lot of peoplestruggle with setting boundaries
, especially, you know, peoplepleasers.
Speaker 2 (12:37):
It's definitely a skill that takes practice, but
the rewards are so worth it.
When you have healthyboundaries, you're not only
protecting your peace, butyou're creating a more balanced
and fulfilling life.
Speaker 1 (12:49):
This has been such an enlightening conversation.
I feel like I'm gaining a wholenew understanding of what it
means to cultivate peace bothinternally and externally.
Speaker 2 (12:57):
I'm so glad to hear that and remember the journey
toward peace is a personal one.
Speaker 1 (13:01):
Yeah.
Speaker 2 (13:01):
There's no right or wrong way to approach it.
Speaker 1 (13:03):
It's about finding what works for you and having
the courage to create a lifethat reflects your values.
Speaker 2 (13:09):
Exactly.
Speaker 1 (13:16):
And you know these journal prompts are wonderful
tools to support you along theway.
Well, I am definitely feelinginspired to start journaling my
way to peace.
We're going to take anotherquick break when we return.
I want to wrap up this deepdive by focusing on the
practical application of theseprompts.
What are some tangibletakeaways that our listeners can
implement in their own lives?
What are some tangibletakeaways that our listeners can
implement in their own lives?
Hashtag DTS the Deep Diveepisode 2024, 1115, part three
(13:37):
of three.
Welcome back to our Deep Dive.
You know we've been talkingabout these 50 journal prompts
for healing and I think we'vereally explored the power of
journaling and how those promptscan guide you through.
You know different stages, butlet's talk about putting this
into practice.
Speaker 2 (13:51):
Yeah, and I think it can feel a bit overwhelming, you
know, when you first look atthat list of 50 prompts where do
I even begin?
Speaker 1 (13:57):
Right, it's like staring at a blank page.
Speaker 2 (13:59):
Exactly so.
My first piece of advice wouldbe you know, choose a prompt
that speaks to you in thismoment.
Don't feel pressured to go inorder.
You know, just trust yourintuition.
Pick one that resonates.
Speaker 1 (14:09):
So if you're feeling drawn to the self-compassion
prompts, start there.
If it's understanding your past, go for it Exactly.
Speaker 2 (14:16):
And the key is, you know, make it a regular practice
.
You don't have to spend hoursjournaling every day.
You know, even five or tenminutes can make a difference.
Speaker 1 (14:23):
So it's consistency rather than quantity.
Speaker 2 (14:27):
Absolutely, and don't overthink it.
You know there's no right orwrong way to journal.
Overthink it.
You know there's no right orwrong way to journal.
It's not about grammar orperfect sentences.
Just let your thoughts andfeelings flow.
Speaker 1 (14:34):
It's your space to be messy, to be real.
Speaker 2 (14:37):
Exactly and, as you write, pay attention to any
recurring themes or patternsthat emerge.
Speaker 1 (14:43):
Oh yeah.
Speaker 2 (14:43):
Those can offer some really valuable insights into
what's going on, you know,beneath the surface.
Speaker 1 (14:49):
It's like those aha moments when you realize
something about yourself youhadn't really thought about
before.
Speaker 2 (14:53):
Precisely, and don't be afraid to delve deeper into
those insights.
Ask yourself what does thisreveal about me?
How can I use this knowledge toheal and grow?
Speaker 1 (15:02):
So it's not just about the writing but the
reflection and making thoseconnections.
Speaker 2 (15:05):
Exactly, and be patient with yourself.
Healing takes time.
There's no need to rush it.
Speaker 1 (15:10):
It's a journey.
Speaker 2 (15:11):
Absolutely.
And as you move along thatjourney, celebrate your progress
.
Speaker 1 (15:16):
Okay.
Speaker 2 (15:16):
Acknowledge your you know those small victories.
Give yourself credit for theeffort that you're putting in.
Speaker 1 (15:26):
That's so important because I think it's easy to get
caught up in what we haven'taccomplished yet and forget to
appreciate how far we've come.
Speaker 2 (15:29):
You're absolutely right.
And one final thought rememberthat you're not alone on this
journey.
You know there are so manyresources available to support
you, whether it's a therapist ora support group or even just a
trusted friend.
Don't hesitate to reach out forhelp if you need it.
Speaker 1 (15:45):
Sometimes, just knowing that you're not alone
can make such a difference.
Speaker 2 (15:47):
It really can.
And as you explore thesejournal prompts and start to you
know, connect with that innerwisdom, remember this you have
everything you need within youto heal and to thrive.
Speaker 1 (15:58):
This has been so inspiring.
I think we've really had a deepdive into you know the power of
journaling and thank you somuch for sharing your expertise
with us.
Speaker 2 (16:05):
It's been my pleasure .
Speaker 1 (16:06):
And for our listeners .
As we wrap up, think back onall the prompts that we
discussed today.
Which one resonated with youthe most, and what might writing
about that particular promptreveal about your own journey
toward healing?
Thanks for joining us for thisdeep dive.
We'll see you next time.
Until then,
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