When I was a teen I had notebooks filled with my life’s escapades. Little did I know how powerful it was to write down your thoughts, dreams and emotions. Fast forward a few decades and I have picked the practice up again thanks to some major bumps in the road and some serious self development. Having spent 5 difficult years trying for baby #2, I know a thing or two about infertility and how stressful it can be. When I’m feeling anxious, I journal. When I have a dream, I journal. When I’m grateful, I journal. I absolutely believe in the power of a good brain dump as well as the power of intention.
One of the most important things I recommend to my clients is keeping a journal weekly and if at all possible daily. Going through any kind of stressful situation, like the Infertility Journey, is not only hard emotionally and physically but it can take a toll on all the relationships in your life. We all know stress can raise certain unfavorable hormones which we do not want to do while trying to have a baby. Having a way of addressing the thoughts you may be deeply suppressing will help you though a time when stress is at its highest.
If you have never journaled before, starting is beyond easy. Grab an empty notebook or lined journal, your favorite pen and a delicious cup of your favorite tea. The tea is of course optional but, to me adding a hot liquid you enjoy drinking only adds to the experience you’re about to embark on. You may know what’s on your mind and if you do I would write that on the top of the page. For example, if you are starting an Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) cycle and you are nervous you may write something like this:
I have no idea what to expect from this cycle because:
OR
I am nervous about starting this cycle because:
OR
I’m really angry I need to go though ART in the first place because:
You catch my drift right???
I recommend writing for at least 15-20 minutes on your topic. Don’t worry if you change gears or start writing about something different. This is all part of the process.
If you have no idea what prompts to use that is okay too. Simply set an alarm for 20 minutes on your phone and write WHATEVER comes to mind. Yes, I mean anything because I guarantee you that at the end of the 20 minutes you will get to whatever thoughts and worries you may be having. We all have daily stress in our lives and I promise you will find something to write about. Everyone can benefit from journaling!
I also use affirmations with my journaling so that I can set positive intentions for myself and claim them to the universe. You can do this at any time to counteract whatever worry you have. For instance, if you have been stuck in the Infertility Journey for a while you may have a few affirmations that look like this:
- I will have a baby in my belly.
- I will never give up hope.
- I have such a positive attitude and I will get through this tough season.
- I will have the family of my dreams.
Whatever your struggle, journaling and positive affirmations can help you through it immediately with minimal cost. Your biggest investment is your time and your commitment!
I truly hope that this was helpful and that you will try these practices for yourself. To help you get started, you can grab a FREE copy of my 10 page workbook Journaling Prompts & Affirmations below!
Enjoy,
I am sending you TONS of Baby Dust!
xoxo,
caryn
