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Matt's avatar

Dear Dr Genevieve,

I really enjoyed reading this newsletter because I have become an avid fan of the joy of journaling.

I too started intuitively writing my thoughts down on paper to clear my mind, a habit that I started in my thirties, I would also make mind maps to plan long term goals and ambitions.

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This year I began experimenting and found my perfect practical solution; a second-hand tablet with an electronic pencil. I fitted a paperlike screen protector which made the writing experience even more enjoyable. The tablet is distraction free just a black screen without apps or wi-fi, I use it exclusively for writing. This is a great way to save paper and its completely secure and private.

Journaling has become a habit and I look forward to showing up on the page every day. My recent experiences match what you described above, I have got a better understanding of myself and writing keeps me accountable to my core values.

I feel like I’m finally changing my self-limiting beliefs and creating an inner coach rather than critic, I regularly catch myself falling into old patterns and behaviours and act accordingly. I wonder if writing has the power to heal old wounds? Can it make us more aware of our own traumas and how they are expressed in our lives? I have noticed a growing shift in my own perception which is quite remarkable if it is down to my daily scribblings!

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Dr Genevieve's avatar

Thank you for sharing. It's a joy to hear about your experiences of journalling Matt and how you are using it for self understanding, growth and healing. I'm feeling inspired by what you have written about using the tablet and I think I may need to look into investing in one.

Dr Pennebaker's research has looked at expressive writing in healing trauma and he has also written a book on this. So there's a fair bit of scientific and anecdotal evidence which is very persuasive that journalling may well play a significant role on the healing journey.

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Matt's avatar

That’s great I will look into Dr Pennebaker’s research sounds fascinating! One more thing if you (or anyone reading this) goes down the tablet route may it might be worth considering the ‘5 Minute Journal: Self-Care App’ by Intelligent Change LLC. It is a subscription service full of inspiring quotes beautifully laid out, plus you have the option of uploading journal entries to the cloud. Also, if you get an Apple pencil it can convert hand writing to text, brilliant!

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Oct 27, 2022
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Dr Genevieve's avatar

It's great to read your comment here and thanks for sharing Baz. I would love to hear more about your work with men HSP/Empaths and discuss further.

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