Writing to Heal

Hey friends,

I know so many of you are healing right now. Physically – from surgery, accidents, life. And mentally, emotionally, spiritually from things that have been said or not said, being discounted, or the latest news of war and injustice in our world. I’m here to say – write about it. Whether you’re a professional writer, or a diary-keeper or have never thought about it before, we can heal through writing. There are no parameters. You can do it three times a day or once a month. Choose a beautiful notebook and pen or open your laptop. Keep it for yourself or send it out to the world. Here are a few ideas for inspiration:

I’ve grown to love Suleika Jaoud’s Isolation Journals. If you haven’t seen it, watch the documentary film American Symphony about Suleika and her husband, musician Jon Batiste.

Psychology professor James Pennebaker arguably began the write to heal movement when he found success in his groundbreaking research.

Austin Kleon’s suggestions and prompts are full of joy and ideas about art and writing. I also like reading about what pencils he uses.

Another note: I’m excited to be part of the inaugural group of writers and journalists featured in the Independent Journalism Atlas. It’s meant to be a growing and changing Wikipedia-type map of independent creators, and it’s fun to explore.

–     Shannon