Pen, Paper & Sisterhood
The magic of group journaling
Dear Friend
How are you feeling today?
Joyful is my word of the day. Sunshine is all around me, and I’m feeling good. Long may it last!
In order for me to share my happy vibes with you, picture this… you’re sitting around a table, surrounded by the warmth of fellow writers, each armed with a journal and pen. The room is bathed in soft, natural light, overlooking a serene garden. Can you feel the energy? The anticipation? This my dear, is the setting for a transformative experience - a group journaling session ‘with ease’.
Now I know what you might be thinking. “Journaling? Isn’t that something I do alone, first thing in the morning or late at night, pouring my thoughts out onto the pages?” Well, yes and no. While personal journaling certainly has its place, there’s something truly magical about coming together with other women to journal, share stories, sometimes cry and rejuvenate the soul.
First off, I’d love to highlight the power of community. Over the past couple of years, through the work that I do, I’ve witnessed many women having to navigate the turbulent waters of midlife, so having a support system, is crucial. Group journaling provides exactly that - a safe space where you can express yourself freely, without judgement. It’s like having a group of cheerleaders, all rooting for you.
Recently I noticed with my journaling group members, it’s not just about the support. It’s about inspiration too. When we write in a group, we’re exposed to different perspectives, experiences and journaling techniques. Whether that be through some of my favourite journaling techniques, such as micro-movements, sentence stems, lists of 100 or the ever so popular mind maps. Suddenly the creative well you thought had run dry, is overflowing with new ideas and fresh insights.
Here’s the thing, the magic always happens in the moments of sharing. It’s amazing how hearing another woman’s story can unlock something within you, leading to profound self-discovery.
“Previously a journaling skeptic, I am now converted due to Tanya’s professional approach and practical support. Tanya has a wonderful way about her. She's a natural host and yet, delivers so much more. She genuinely wants everyone to understand the importance of stepping away from our daily hurly-burly lives and to reflect through the practice of therapeutic journaling. Her expertise she has in journalling is second to none. Tanya has a keen eye for beautiful surroundings and the finer things in life and has found some stunning venues for group session and retreats. If you are looking for an escape to evaluate or to process how life is panning out for you - I wholeheartedly recommend you invest in Tanya at Ease Retreats. You will not be disappointed”. Amanda Thomas
Let’s not forget the accountability factor. We all know how easy it is to let personal journaling practice slide when life gets hectic, when we literally don’t have a minute to ourselves. I know, I’ve been there SO many times. But when you’ve got a group of wonderful women expecting you to show up, pen in hand, you’re much more likely to stick with it. Plus, you’ll learn quick journaling techniques that even the busiest of us can adopt. Have you ever tried writing just ONE word, one day at a time for 30 days? Why don’t you give it go this summer?
Consistency is key in any transformative practice, and group journaling helps us stay on track. Just imagine all of this happening in a beautiful setting. There’s something about being surrounded by nature or in a thoughtfully designed space that opens up, and makes us more receptive to our inner thoughts. Like I mentioned yesterday on my Substack - it’s about giving ourselves permission!
Group journaling ‘with ease’ isn’t about writing - it’s about connection.
Its about sharing stories that have been unravelled from a particularly challenging prompt.
It’s about been seen and heard by others sat next to you.
It’s about realising that you’re not alone in your struggles or your triumphs.
So if you’re looking for a way to channel your emotions into something more positive and creative, why not give group journaling a try? It might be just the key to unlocking a whole new chapter in your life.
Remember every word you write is a step towards understanding yourself better. I’ll let you into a little secret, the REAL Tanya is found on the pages in my journal. I’m working my way towards her every single day. The Tanya you see in front of you, has to wear many hats, hide behind masks, show up with a smile on her face, when on occasion, all she wants to do is runaway from it all. Hands up if you experience days where you simply don’t feel like adulting, where you’re unsure of what to do next, feeling confused and overwhelmed. You’re not alone. I promise, if you commit to consistently showing up on the page, you’ll become your very own therapist. And when you take this journey alongside other amazing women, the path becomes not just meaningful, but truly magical.
Care to join me for a short journaling session now? Please help yourself to these journaling prompts, and never feel like you can’t reach out and ask me for some journaling advice. I’m here to help. Journaling is my passion. I thrive off it.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Describe a moment when you felt truly powerful. What made it special?
If your ‘inner muse’ could talk, what would it say to you right now?
Write about a feat you’ve overcome. How did it change you?
What does “home” mean to you? Describe your ideal sanctuary.
If you could have dinner with any woman from history, who would it be and why?
What’s a dream you’ve been putting off and why?
Describe your prefect day, from drawn to dusk.
Write a love letter to your future self, describing all that is wonderful about YOU.
What was the one thing you didn’t say out loud this week?
If you enjoy my prompts, jump over to Substack Notes to join in with my “Journal Through July” campaign, even though we are over half way through the month, you can still join our community.
You’re very welcome to join my “Journal with Ease” club this Thursday at 1pm. It’s literally 45 minutes of guided journaling with a group of likeminded women of all ages. You don’t have to have any journaling experience, just bring your favourite notebook, pen and an open mind.
Here is the link https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82513843835
Until the next time
Take care and stay safe xx
If you enjoy ‘with ease’ and would like to support my work, be offered first refusal to book onto my writing & wellbeing retreats with best selling authors, receive discounts towards my therapeutic journaling workshops, please buy me the equivalent of one cup of coffee, by becoming a paid subscriber. Thank you so much.