We think so! And we are proof that it does. Here are some of the (scientifically-proven) benefits you can experience (many of which we have!):

- Releasing and reducing stress and anxiety (which can help boost your immune system)

- Improving your mindset and emotional intelligence (being able to name, manage and control your emotions better)

- Cultivating more gratitude and excitement in your life (when combined with a gratitude practice)

- Improving memory function

- Connecting deeper with yourself and others (depending on the type of journal)

- Gaining more self-awareness (into who you are, your fears, stressors, thought patterns/triggers)

- Experiencing a boost in overall state of well-being

A few (scientifically proven) benefits of practicing gratitude daily include:

- Enhancing long-term happiness by helping you focus on the good in your life

- Boosting self-esteem by helping you feel good (or better) about your life and circumstances

- Increasing feelings of optimism

- Strengthening relationships

This is why we included a gratitude section in our journal!

The most important part of starting is choosing a time that will work for you, the majority of days. Our journals are designed to be used at any time of day - you don't need a lot of time but you do need a commitment and desire. When first starting out, challenge yourself to journal everyday for one week (set a reminder in your calendar if you need to). This will help you get into the practice of journaling. You can write in complete sentences, stream-of-consciousness or in bullets for each prompt - do what feels best for you so that it will be easier to stay consistent.

Consistency is key when it comes to journaling (or anything, for that matter). The more consistent you are with journaling, the more lasting benefits you'll experience! We recommend journaling at least 3 times per week for best results (but we understand that life happens so when you get out of routine - just dive back into it!)

We're big believers in getting all that's in your head - out! In my experience, that's how you'll experience the most benefits of journaling. Do what you need to do in order to achieve this - is it writing in your journal and then immediately tearing out and discarding the page? Is it hiding it in a drawer? Do what you need to do, girl!

This is very much a personal preference. Some people like to keep their journals as a keepsake or for relection down the road while other people discard their journals when they're done. If you'd like to discard your journal, our journals can be recycled - tear out and shred the interior pages.