First of all, the word "journaling" seems to be something we've made up because all my spellcheckers pick it up. Webster needs to catch up and realize this is a very important verb.

But, my real point is to talk about what that word or the word "journal" conjures up in our minds.  I occassionally speak to someone that isn't familiar with art journaling or maybe has only heard of keeping a diary.  This gives me the opportunity to step outside the familiar land of journaling and see how others view it.

It always surprises me that some people aren't comfortable with the idea of writing in a journal, or even doing art in one.  Something about permanently depositing their thoughts or emotions on a page is too much commitment.

As is the case with many things, maybe the word journal evokes a memory of something unpleasant for some of us.  Or perhaps there's some expectation assumed.

I believe that the benefits of journaling are so enormous that I want everyone to experience it.  Therefore, I'm looking at this and wondering how I can help anyone who is hesitant to try journaling?  Would using a different term work?  If it was called "detangling"  or "unwinding" would it be less intimidating?

Traditionally we think of writing in a journal every day.  Some people write first thing in the morning, others write at the end of their day.  What if we turned all convention upside down?

What if you wrote whenever you wanted? What if you wrote on the wall instead of in a book? What if you wrote in circles, spirals or backwards? 

Find the place, method and time that appeals to you, and try journaling - just once.  If it's not too unpleasant, then try it again.  If you write, draw, doodle, paint or glue just enough to get to some core emotions you'll be hooked.  The results of putting our thoughts on paper (or whatever surface you choose) are truly amazing.