Using writing as a stratey to experience more positive emotions

Using writing as a stratey to experience more positive emotions

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Multiple studies in the past have indicated that writing promotes coping following traumatic events. More recent research has begun to pay more attention to the benefits of writing in other situations to boost positive moods.

In January this year Gary Lewandowski (from Monmouth University) published an article summarising a study in which it was found that people encouraged to engage in a positive writing exercise experienced significantly greater positive emotion than those invited to engage in negative or neutral writing.

There’s little doubt that this strategy could be of benefit to many people in all manner of situations so today we’re pleased to present to you an overview of the instructions for the writing strategy with the suggestion that you try it out and let us know how you go! All you need to begin is some paper and a pen…

Do not worry about grammar and spelling. Please follow the instructions below for 20 minutes a day for at least 3 consecutive days. When you write, please do so in a place of your choosing that is comfortable and free from distractions.

Try to relax your mind as much as you can and write about your deepest positive emotions. The important thing is that you dig down into your deepest positive emotions and explore them as fully as you’re able in your writing.

So, that’s it! Simple really. But if you experience the gains that those in Lewandow’ski’s study did you’ll find, just as they did, that setting aside just a few minutes every day to engage in positively focused writing will significantly increase the positive emotions you experience…and that, surely, would be a good thing!