Facing a Storm - And How Journaling and Coloring Helped Me
Did My Journaling and Coloring Help Me?
No one told me that coming out of a relationship would be tough. Well, I did hear it but never paid any mind to it. The emotional wreck in my mind, body, and soul was so devastating, it made me physically ill. How was I to cope with the overwhelming feeling I had inside? I did some journaling.
In our fast-paced and often overwhelming world, finding healthy ways to cope with stress, emotions, and personal challenges is essential. I have found two timeless, low-cost tools that have brought me surprising emotional and mental relief: journaling and coloring. While they may seem like simple hobbies, these creative outlets were the most powerful tools for self-discovery, healing, and inner peace.
I discovered peace, purpose, and healing through these simple creative practices.
Here’s what I found:
1. Journaling Clarifies Thoughts and Emotions
Putting pen to paper allows me to untangle what’s going on in my mind. When we write freely, we explore our thoughts and emotions in a safe space.
How it helps:
Reduces anxiety and mental clutter
Helps identify patterns and triggers
Encourages self-reflection and emotional awareness
Try this: Start each morning or evening by writing for five minutes. Don’t worry about grammar or spelling—just write what’s on your heart and mind.
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2. Coloring Relieves Stress and Anxiety
Ok, I hear what some folks are saying, "Coloring is for children." No, adults who color can benefit from its soothing, meditative quality.
How it helps:
Lowers stress by engaging the brain in a calming, repetitive activity
Promotes mindfulness and being present in the moment
Boosts creativity and inner calm
Try this: Choose a coloring book that inspires you—whether it’s filled with mandalas, nature scenes, or inspirational words—and color for 10–15 minutes during your break or before bed.
3. Both Activities Encourage Mindfulness
Mindfulness, I read somewhere, is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment. Both journaling and coloring naturally draw me into the “now.”
How it helps:
Reduces overthinking and negative self-talk
Helps break cycles of worry and rumination
Cultivates gratitude and awareness
Tip: While journaling, try writing three things you're grateful for. While coloring, focus on the feel of the pencil or marker in your hand and the colors coming to life.
4. Journaling Strengthens Personal Growth
Journaling helps us track our journey, decisions, and changes over time. By reflecting on past entries, I can measure how far I’ve come.
How it helps:
Builds resilience and confidence
Provides clarity in decision-making
Records lessons learned and answered prayers
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5. Coloring Reawakens Joy and Creativity
Coloring is a form of play, and we often forget the importance of play as adults. Choosing colors, blending shades, and filling pages reactivates our inner child.
How it helps:
Sparks joy and lightheartedness
Boosts mood and dopamine
Encourages self-expression without pressure
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6. Both Promote Spiritual and Emotional Healing
When paired with prayer, Scripture, or inspirational prompts, journaling and coloring can be tools of deep personal and spiritual transformation. I can definitely tell the difference since I couple my journaling and coloring with my time with God.
How it helps:
Opens the heart to healing and reflection
Helps us process grief, trauma, or transition
Deepens our connection with ourselves and our Creator
Final Thought
Whether you’re facing a storm or simply longing for a peaceful moment in your day, journaling and coloring can become your refuge—an outlet for creativity, a canvas for healing, and a gateway to mindfulness. No special skills required, just your willingness to pause, reflect, and let your heart speak and your hands create.
