Journalling has become one of the most powerful, and most underrated, tools in my mental health toolkit. Not the Pinterest version with the perfect handwriting and the calligraphy pens. The real version — the messy, honest, scribbled-in-the-car-park-during-nap-time version.
Why Journalling Works
There's real science behind it. Writing down what's in your head reduces the intensity of anxious thoughts, helps your brain process emotion, and gives you space to hear yourself think — something that becomes rare when you're constantly meeting other people's needs.
For mums especially, journalling is a way of coming home to yourself.
You Don't Need To Be A Writer
You don't need to write in full sentences. You don't need to spell things correctly. You don't need to write every day. Journalling is not a performance. It's a private conversation between you and you.
“"Journalling isn't about writing well. It's about being honest with yourself for five minutes a day."
Five-Minute Prompts To Start With
🤍 What's actually on my mind today? 🤍 What am I carrying that isn't mine? 🤍 What do I need more of this week? 🤍 What do I need less of? 🤍 One thing I'm proud of today (however small) 🤍 One thing I'd love to let go of 🤍 What would I say to a friend feeling what I'm feeling right now?
When To Journal
Whenever it fits. First thing in the morning with your coffee. In the car whilst you wait for pick-up. In bed before sleep. On your phone in the notes app when a proper journal feels like too much. The best time is the time you'll actually do it.
What Not To Do
🤍 Don't turn it into another thing you're behind on 🤍 Don't reread every entry 🤍 Don't try to make it look pretty 🤍 Don't share it unless you want to 🤍 Don't stop just because you missed a few days
Why This Matters For Mums
So much of motherhood asks you to be everything for everyone. Journalling is one of the few spaces where you get to be entirely for yourself. Five minutes on a page can shift the whole day.
Storme x