Saturday, January 7, 2017

Wellness Journal...recollections from the dark moving towards a brighter future.

Have you ever kept a journal?


When I was going through a rough patch in early menopause I wrote in a gratitude journal and found it very helpful and soothing. Making note of 5 things everyday that I was grateful for was a positive attitude shift. This simple exercise was surprisingly very motivating and ultimately incredibly empowering.


Back then, my weight was "out of control" my self esteem was at rock bottom.
I had hit a wall...and felt overwhelmed and powerless.


When I was in the thick of it,
I had NO CLUE whatsoever why I was feeling this way.

Looking back, I now realize what was happening to my body and why my emotions were all over the map.
Menopause can cause so many ups and downs and unfortunately it does not come with a guide book to help us navigate this path.

I was not in tune to my own body.
I was giving so much time and energy to others who needed my help,
that I neglected to take care and do what was needed
in order to stay balanced, happy and healthy.

The tell tale symptoms were there...
low energy
stress
sleep disruptions resulting in fatigue
mood swings
mind fogs
food cravings that resulted in binge eating loads of carbs and chocolate

"Oh Woe is Me!" felt like my mantra.
I'm not proud of this period of my life but it must have happened for a reason.
This experience taught me a lot of valuable lessons...
it taught me how to establish boundaries and I had to learn to say no.
Very difficult for someone who was raised to give before receiving.

Shifting my focus from obsessing over my symptoms,
I took charge...
reading books on menopause, fitness, healthy foods and meditation.
It was hard work, took time, but I needed to do something to turn things around.
Acceptance and action was much more attractive over self loathing and self medicating.


So back to the journal...
it was a powerful tool in my journey back to wellness.

The journal was instrumental in instigating change.
So I am reinstating my habit and am starting a new journal.
It will be wellness and fitness focused and I will write in it every day.


Documenting my weight, walks, workouts, weight watcher points
and making notes of any emotions that may be contributing factors that threaten to derail my success and giving myself a written pat on the back when I succeed.


BTW ~ The kettle bells are an amazing workout and I am devoting 30 minutes every other day to this new routine, while still trying to walk everyday.


Will you join me on this road to wellness?
All you need is a
pen and some paper...
let's make our journals a beautiful and gentle record of our continued journey to better health.

~ Be Well and Be Kind ~

51 comments:

Sheila Bell said...

I wrote in a journal for years after Greg died. It was good to get my thoughts and feelings out and down on paper and very enlightening to re read after the darkest years. Good luck!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Journals are like a silent non judgemental "friend" in times of loss...a healing tool when grieving. Just the simple act of writing down our feelings can help us gain perspective and in time allow us move ahead...
You are an amazing woman Sheila.
XO

A Lovely Inconsequence said...

I just caught up on your blog Leslie. You make me can't wait to be a grandmother! You remind me of the kind of grandmothering my grandmother did. You still have non-grandmother style! I loved your fur jacket - it looked great. Loved the bracelet you are creating with the diamond hearts. I may copy that! I bet Thingfinder is helping you put that together. I don't keep a journal anymore but I type things and keep them in a computer file. I think having a blog is a type of journal, don't you? Happy New Year!

Patricia said...

I have always been reluctant to start a journal, fearing someone would see and read it. Perhaps the wellness journal is the way to go, writing about the weight, the exercise, the food. Sometimes I have written out anxiety using Pitman's Shorthand - no one round here can read than except me.
What a gorgeous rose - yours are the Best.

Madame Là-bas said...

I used to write in a journal but it often became a "poor me log". I think that recording the positives of the days is helpful. I have some beautiful journal books that I have been given and a fine pen as well. I will join you in the journey. I just read a very interesting book called Day After Night by Anita Diamant. You might enjoy it. Perhaps I will record books too.

Anonymous said...

Think I might give the fitness/health journal a try.
thank you. Linda C.

Susan said...

I really needed to read this today Leslie. I am going through a rough patch---my very difficult mother is in the hospital and fighting against everything that is in her best interest. I feel overwhelmed and yes, angry. I need to remember those things I am grateful for and find some time to be kind to myself and be grateful for the many good things in my life.

djo said...

You've held up a lantern for me to see a path out of a difficult time! I've always kept a journal but will often abandon the practice when I need it most, like during a busy holiday season. I give you credit for providing positive direction when I needed it most this morning, thank you so much for sharing your wisdom.

Memee said...

Love journal writing in Exacompta (Paris) little books with fine paper (available on Amazon!) and an old favorite fountain pen. How did you learn how to use the kettle weights? I'm interested in trying them but have no clue on use. Like you, I really want to focus on health this year.

Jennifer said...

Wonderful idea, Leslie! I've been a fan of keeping a gratitude journal for years. It's such a powerful tool to help us appreciate all our blessings. I love the idea of a wellness one.

Anonymous said...

Leslie, thanks for the journal idea! I would love to try getting healthier and you do inspire me, so count me in!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Blogging is a bit like journalling...the idea of writing about the same topic each day might bore readers so thats where my pen and paper come in handy!
Happy New Year Donna.
Being a grandmother is such a lovely gift...I could not have predicted how much I love these wee three children. When your time comes it might surprise you too.
Thing finder helps me find all manner of things...shoes, handbags and of course jewels...she is a gem herself!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

You can hide the journal if you are concerned that someone would read it...or as you say write in shorthand! How clever to have a code. I would not be overly concerned if anyone read my journal...as a young girl I kept a diary and it had a tiny lock and key which anyone could have opened with a bobby pin!
I do love roses in the garden...
Take care

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

If its a poor me log that might be a way for you to rid yourself of self pity...write it down and move ahead to brighter things.
I remember reading Diamants' book, The Red Tent, I stayed up all night reading it...her work is very well executed...I will add this title to my list. Thank you!
Good luck with your journal...your daughter might like to join in with you documenting her fitness journey.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Good luck Linda and Happy New Year.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Oh no, that sounds like a difficult situation...my sister and I are also concerned about how our Mother will react when things become unmanageable.
Go easy on yourself at this stressful juncture and maybe try to pamper yourself a bit...no harm in making life more tolerable when we have no control over things.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

If I have been able to help you then my post has been worth the time I spent writing it. You have the power to change.
Hope that journalling will be a help to you.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

The kettle bells are new to me and so I went online to You Tube to watch various workouts...there are so many videos! I chose a couple for beginners and am using them as my basic routines for now...hope to advance to a more strenuous regime when these no longer challenge me.
Fountain pens are beautiful to use...I used to have one years ago.
Now I use the rolling ball pens but I might have to find a fountain pen...you have planted a seed!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Good luck with your journal Jennifer!
Writing a gratitude journal is visible proof that we are counting our blessings.
XO

La Contessa said...

YES I WILL!
I was given a JOURNAL for XMAS.
Now ,between the COMPUTER< EMAILS>AND INSTAGRAM I MUST FIND TIME!!!
WHEN DO YOU WRITE EARLY AM?

Jo-Anne said...

Hello Hostess, The fitness journal sounds perfect. I have also read 'The Red Tent' and thought it was wonderful. I'll try 'Day after Night'. A great writer.
Happy New Year

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I write my blog posts whenever I feel motivated...
as to the journal I write in the evening.
There are a LOT of distractions online...and so often times I have to pry myself away from my laptop! There are only so many hours in a day!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Please let me know what you think of the book...Madame has great taste in novels.

rebecca said...

Yes! I've journaled for years and years and years. Unlike some folks, I journal in only one book but combine health, quotes, feelings, daily diary, etc. all in one place.

Anonymous said...

There is a lot of wisdom in your words
I record my books,concerts and theatre,dinner menus when I'm the hostess ( :-) ).....little delights...
Gratitude diary is an inspiration
I've got silver grey Moleskin(and the little one for my bag-old one was red) notebook and have found new Parker fontain pen while decluttering last week...maybe it's a sign!
Dottoressa

Sydney Shop Girl said...

This was such an inspiring post to me, Leslie. Thanks for sharing your journey and your success is richly deserved.

I am a kettlebell addict too. I alternate ciruits with them with skipping and backyard running a couple of times a week.

SSG xxx

Pam said...

| push the idea of a journal away; maybe, I should receive and not push....I have a beautiful empty journal I should begin filling up; I am interested in the kettle bells so will check you tube out....I will get my pen and journal out ready to begin a much needed written trip..thank you Hostess you are the best!!!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Sounds like you are a fan of journalling too! I like the idea of a multi purpose book where you can keep everything in one place...very sensible!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Great news that you found your pen! It may be a sign...love those Moleskin books...so luxurious!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Do you have any favourite websites on kettle bells?
I am discovering all kinds of workouts on You Tube...there is no shortage of people out there who can lead and inspire us getting fit!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

If you are ready to write that blank journal is ready to receive your thoughts and words...where will it take you? (I mean the trip)
Mine would be to Provence France!

Sandra Sallin said...

Keep up the inspiration. Today was my first day back at exercising. At least walking. I don't know abou the Journal but I love reading about your journey with your health and exercise.

Julie said...

Positive thoughts and appreciation for what we have. Great to write it down to physically remind ourselves. Or if it's about our issues, a way to vent.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Thank you Sandra I hope that the journal will help me stay accountable and motivated...I need to stay focused or I lose interest and can find excuses not to work out...exercise is not my favourite thing to do but I KNOW I need to do it for my bone and heart health so it is an investment in my overall well being.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

So true Julie...and if we look back on journal entries we may see a pattern developing and be able to use this information for our benefit.

A Lovely Inconsequence said...

Susan, I can relate to this as well. My mother is frail and at time unmanageable and it worries me so. If you ever want to compare notes and support one another, I will give you my email. emilyatheart@gmail.com

Anna of Mutton Style and Years said...

I am working on a goals programme and dealing with tolerations. It does mean keeping accountable to me each night. One thing I'm doing for me is reading more. Exercise is on my list too.

Penelope Bianchi said...

I must be older than everyone here! What I can tell you is that Gail Sheehy's book _The Silent Passage (consider that underlined!) Saved me! And when my husband read it.....he said....."Every man who is married should read this book!"

It sure helped us navigate...and sharing it was wonderful!
I am not saying anything against a journal.....I just suggest this wonderful book by such an accomplished woman how to navigate through life's changes was enormously helpful to me and my beloved, loving, smart and curious husband. He said......"OMIGOD!! THIS is the reason so many people our age get divorced! Who knew???"
And that is the truth! This was twenty years ago or something! I will be 70 next month!

hollybholly said...

I have been journaling gratitude for nearly 20 years. A great way to start each day with reminders of my "personal wealth" and an open heart. I too am starting another journal. Mine is to help me find my purpose and to manifest my hopes for this last chapter of my life. I am 62 years old and still don't know my purpose in life or "what I want to do when I grow up"! It is a bit of a bullet journal but mostly a place to write long and short term To Do's. I hope that it will help me find that illusive grand answer to "what am I here for?" as well as keep me focused on daily work to be done. BTW, thank you for the reminder of the kettle bell. Need to up my strength training which is currently at none at all. Thanks for sharing that you are a fellow traveler in Gratitude Journaling. Nice to know there are more of me out there. Write On!

RK said...

I've been thinking about the same idea, journaling focused on health-related issues: eating, exercising, and general wellness. The past year has been a challenging one in terms of family demands and many of them continue. I know that I must take care of myself--both for my own sake and in order to be able to be helpful to those I love during tough times--and yet we all know how difficult that can be when the demands on our time and energy are high. I think that reflecting and writing regularly will help me to stay on course. So a big THANK YOU to you for reminding me how helpful this might be. I'm in! And wishing you the best on your path toward your goals.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Sounds like we have a lot in common Anna.
Best of luck to you!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Must see if I can find a copy of this book in the library...I wonder if it would have helped me years ago when I was in the midst of menopause?
How are you going to celebrate your upcoming milestone? Any big plans?

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Welcome Holly,
Thank you for your thoughtful comment.
Sounds like you are a very passionate person...I admire your dedication to all those years of keeping a journal.
The strength training is new to me too...I know we lose bone mass as we age so I am hoping that this will help me stay strong.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I think that carving out a few minutes each day to write in a journal is time well spent...you do need to take care of yourself too. If you burn out those who need your help will be at a loss...you are wise to be aware of your emotions and energy levels. Good luck with your goals.

Marilyn said...

Snap, Penelope, I too am 70 next month! How time flies. Hostess, I have the pen all I need is the journal. It is on my to buy list for Friday when I go to town. My weight loss has ground to a halt as I have a dreadful head cold and feeling sorry for myself!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

I don't think you should try to do too much until you recover from that nasty cold. Take care and its OK to feel sorry for yourself when you are under the weather. You have my sympathy.
My recent festive season weight gain has been a wake up call for me...I only had the courage to get on the scale this morning and I was shocked!
Now its down to business.

Veronica Roth said...

Well, that's what I do with all sorts of people, make wellness journals. I made one as I was gong thru radiation therapy. (not my first one, but one which truly saved my sanity) And now I volunteer my time and art supplies at the cancer agency, the wellness centre and have also brought it to the palliative care ward for any family members. It's a very powerful thing for me. My kind are probably a bit different than what you're used to, but are designed for people who just don't know what to say or how to say it. I'm very happy to journal along with you. Shall I write a blog post and link? You're more than welcome to look thru my journal process. Just search wellness journal. Tons of posts.

Nadya Hajj said...

I have always kept a journal since I was 6 years old. I am 35 now so that is quite a long time for me! Recently, I started keeping an electronic journal that I can update via my phone or ipad (it is called "day one"- just FYI for anyone looking for an electronic one- and I like it because I can insert photos easily). After I had my daughter, I suffered from post partum depression. In addition to talking to a professional therapist, I found that two things helped me feel better and get a much needed emotional release: exercising my body and writing in a journal. Happy New Year 2017, Leslie! I made a recipe from the WW slow cooker book (the one with sausages and veggies). It was delicious and my family enjoyed the meal too!!

Nadya Hajj said...

I have kept a journal my entire writing life (since I turned 6 years old). I am 35 now so that is a long time. I recently started using the Day One app to keep my journal electronically and I really enjoy it because I can easily paste photos and writing in it using my iPhone or ipad. After I had my daughter, I had Post partum depression (PPD). In addition to seeing a professional therapist, two things really helped me work through my PPD: excerising daily and writing in a journal daily. Both activities gave me a much needed emotional release.

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

You are a talented and gifted artist Veronica. Sharing your creative process with others must be very rewarding and it must help patients and families who are in the throes of cancer to channel some of their negative and positive energies into their wellness journals. I will pop over to your blog and catch up on my reading...thank you!

hostess of the humble bungalow said...

Thank you for that information Nadya.
I think that we are both in sync about exercising and journalling!
Great news that the WW slow cooker book is coming in handy.
Happy New Year to you and your family.