What is Writing for Wellbeing?
Our brains are story-telling machines. Writing offers us an opportunity to examine the stories we tell ourselves.
Rewriting this narrative can help us make sense of adverse experiences and in time improve mood, and offer new perspectives on challenging issues. By becoming the author of our own life story we gain agency and control.
How Does it Work?
Studies show that writing can have a powerful impact on mental health. Evidence shows that expressive writing benefits health, including
​
-
fewer stress-related visits to the doctor
-
improved immune system functioning
-
reduced blood pressure
-
improved lung and liver function
-
improved mood
-
feeling of greater physical wellbeing
-
feeling of greater psychological wellbeing
-
reduced depressive symptoms
-
reduced absenteeism from work
-
improved academic performance
Essentially, writing for wellbeing is a self-help tool to help bring about self-discovery.
​
Through this we can understand ourselves, work out how to look after ourselves better and control anxiety, depression and overwhelm.
​
Expressive writing often unearths surprising truths. Through our words we learn about our true design in life, our long forgotten ambitions and reconnect to our authentic self.
​
And writing is incredibly adaptable. You can write anywhere, on your own or in a group, and choose any style of writing. All you need is a pen and paper. It is a powerful, private process. You are writing purely for yourself, in your own words and style, with no audience to impress.