Mari's Journaling Power Blog | Journaling Therapy, Creative Journaling
Therapeutic Journaling Wakes Up Your Senses
We often take our five senses for granted, which seems unbelievable considering how integral they are to our existence. But how often do you gobble down a meal on your way out the door without really tasting it, or walk by the same people and buildings every day without really seeing them? We get into autopilot when we are busy or distracted or preoccupied, and we fail to notice and appreciate all that we see, hear, touch, taste and smell.
Take time today to be present and experience all of your senses fully.
Exercises for Sensory Journal Writing
Therapeutic journaling is an excellent way to slow down and engage with what is going on around you. Set aside 30 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of your regular day. Take a short walk around your neighborhood, actively observing as you go, then return to your house for quiet journal writing time.
1. Sight
Look at your block with fresh eyes. Notice the kids playing, the joggers rushing by and the neighbors returning from the grocery store. Pay attention to everything you see, from the buildings and cars to the animals and street signs.
2. Hearing
Listen to what is normally background noise to your own conversations, music or thoughts. Eavesdrop on people chatting as they pass you. Keep your ears perked for sounds from restaurants, houses, shops and parks.
3. Touch
Make it a mission to pick up a small object or two along your walk – a flower, a stone, a menu, a piece of bark. Feel its shape and texture in your hand as you walk.
4. Taste
If there is a place for you to stop for a quick bite to eat along your route, do so; if not, bring a favorite snack with you. Pause for a break and have a few bites. Chew slowly and enjoy the flavors and textures of your food.
5. Smell
Breathe deeply and notice the good smells that you pass on your walk. Stop to appreciate the jasmine blooming or the garlic wafting from your neighbor’s kitchen.
When you return to your house, write down everything you remember. What struck you most about your observations? Which sense do you feel was strongest? Which is most out of practice?
