Journal—focus your expression for healing

Introduced

Journal—focus your expression for healing The word journal shares a root meaning with diurnal, which means daily. To journal is to reflect on the day and then capture those thoughts and feelings in text or drawing or symbol. The journal is also the name of the book we use to capture these reflections.

Unlike maintaining a calendar or recording the activities of the day, using a journal gives expression to what lies beneath the surface: things such as our subconscious thoughts, hidden feelings, body symptoms, and energy levels. Its real value lies in what emerges from the process of journaling: new insights and perspectives, objectivity about feelings, and a glimpse into our dreams and hopes.

The journal exercise in each chapter is designed to help you surface and explore your inner state. Sometimes the first time we become aware of our thoughts and feelings is when we read what we have written. Each journal activity connects with the themes of the chapter.

• Lament—the reality of grief and the need for healing • Star—the impact of grief and loss • Heartlife—the emotions of grief and healing • Flow—the thoughts of grief and healing • Sleep—the symptoms of grief and healing

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