A Centering Journal Page

So helpful when life feels overwhelming

After my sister passed last June, I wasn’t able to journal. I just didn’t have any words, which is unusual for this word person. But I knew how healing my journal could be, so I started playing with colors and shapes to process all that I was feeling in my physical, emotional, mental and spiritual bodies. Coloring like a little kid and jotting down this simple phrase helped me anchor into the NOW.

Of course my doodle overflows with my sister’s favorite color, purple. It’s one of the ways I feel her spirit. After coloring the circle, I felt called to add the dotted pattern, which was oh, so soothing to my soul.

This container technique, which I learned years ago from Anne-Marie Jobin at newcreativejournaling.com, didn’t take a lot of energy at a time when I had none, but it made a huge difference to simply acknowledge my sadness AND the importance of living in the moment. I was learning how to let sadness and joy live side-by-side.

If you’re experiencing any kind of loss — death of a loved one or pet, the end of a relationship or coveted career, or empty nest, to name a few of life’s difficult transitions — then please do try this exercise on. May it bring you a little relief and healing. xo