5 Alternatives to Journaling
Let’s be honest, journaling can become a tedious task on the healing journey. Sometimes instead of helping, it becomes one more thing on the to-do list. This can feel stressful or overwhelming, which is the opposite of what we are trying to achieve.
There are times that I’ve sat with my journal on my lap, fidgeting with the pen in my hand, staring at a blank sheet of paper, not knowing where to start. In that moment, it feels easier to just close the journal and let it be. And that’s okay.
The healing journey isn’t about doing one specific healing technique consistently, but rather showing up for yourself consistently. It’s about finding what feels supportive in the moment.
Think of different healing techniques as different tools in a tool box, one tool doesn’t fix every problem. For example, some days you need a screw driver instead of a hammer.
So, here are a couple of alternatives to try when journaling isn’t quite working:
1. Speak what you can’t write
Use the voice memo app to talk through what’s on your mind. Just let the thoughts and feels flow through you. Let anything and everything that comes up out.
2. Let your feelings take shape
Grab some crayons or color pencils and paper and draw it out. This is a great alternative if you have a creative mind. It can be abstract, shapes or just blobs of color that reflect how you feel.
3. Talk to your reflection
Sit in front of a mirror and talk to your reflection, it helps you have compassion for yourself. At first it can feel awkward but it can become grounding over time. An alternative is recording a video of yourself, it can be insightful to rewatch the video and do some shadow work or inner child work!
4. Create a playlist for your feels
Make a playlist that mirrors your current emotional state—whether that’s sadness, peace, anger, or joy. Let music speak for you when words fall short. Sometimes that’s all we need to feel seen.
5. Talk to a safe person
Reach out to someone who listens without judgment. You don’t need advice—just presence. Letting your feelings be witnessed can often do what no journal ever could.
Staying consistent on the healing journey is far from easy, but by adapting to what feels manageable, being consistent becomes easier to integrate into daily life. When one healing modality or technique feels like too much, rework it into something you can enjoy.
As always, be kind and compassionate with yourself on your journey.
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