Expressive Writing: Words That Heal [FREE]State a feeling ("I feel anxious"). Ask "Why?" and write the answer. Ask "Why?" again to that answer. Repeat five times to find the root. This is for your eyes only. Knowing no one will read it allows for the "radical honesty" required for healing. Healing Prompts If a blank page feels intimidating, try one of these "low-barrier" entry points: Expressive Writing: Words that Heal Forget grammar, spelling, and syntax. If you run out of things to say, redraw the last line or write "I don't know what to say" until a new thought emerges. Write for 15 to 20 minutes. Set a timer and don't stop. State a feeling ("I feel anxious") Write to someone (living or dead) you have unresolved feelings toward. Say everything you’ve been holding back. Write a letter from yourself ten years in the future, explaining how you eventually got through what you are facing today. What to Expect Repeat five times to find the root It is common to feel a bit "heavy" or sad immediately after writing—much like the soreness after a deep-tissue massage. However, within a few hours or days, most people report a sense of relief, better sleep, and a "lighter" mental load. |