Who, at the end of a long day juggling parenting and all of life’s demands, is guilty of just zoning out watching television? Somedays I crawl into bed straight after I put my two down as I’m that tired. But if you can spare just a few moments at the end of the day or whenever you have twenty minutes or so to jot down your thoughts and feelings- well the benefits of journaling are significant.

Mindfulness journaling is a cathartic way to express feelings. Mindful writing can accelerate personal growth by understanding our innermost thoughts. It can also be a great way to release stress and feel more grateful. According to James Pennebaker, ‘…an increasing number of studies have demonstrated that when individuals write about emotional experiences, significant physical and mental health improvements follow.’  So, it’s a great one for body and mind wellbeing.

What are our top five mindfulness journals to try?

The Power of Now Journal

By Eckhart Tolle

I remember reading The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle – what feels like forever ago. Actually, it was forever ago. So I was thrilled when The Power of Now Journal was published. It is a beautifully illustrated journal flush with inspiring teachings from the author’s book. The pivotal theme of Eckhart Tolle’s work is the importance of living in the here and now. Anxiety and worries exist in the past or the future, which as the journal teaches, never holds as much value as the present. We at Moshi are all about connecting to the moment. This journal can be a great way to accept challenges and go with the flow of life.

The 52 Lists Project: A Year of Weekly Journaling Inspiration

By Moorea Seal

I chose this one not only for the list lovers but also because the author donates some of the brand’s proceeds to protect the planet. A more ethical choice for our socially conscious folk. It’s a great idea- simply write one list for every week of the year with the help of prompts and challenges. Time to make those unlived dreams come to fruition. One list example is writing down the things about yourself that you feel shy or scared about expressing. It is decorated with heavenly photography and illustrations.

Daily Bean – simplest journal

By BlueSignum Corp.

One way to be even more eco-aware when choosing a mindfulness journal is to go digital. Now I love pen and paper so I haven’t gotten this far but the app has great reviews and is for those who want to record their day-to-day lives in a user-friendly way. You can choose your mood for the day and look at how this changes with certain activities over the month. You can also add a picture and a line of notes. Mindfulness apps are a fantastic way to promote calm at home.

The Untethered Soul Guided Journal: Writing Practices to Journey Beyond Yourself

By Michael A. Singer

This was recommended to me as a lovely companion to Micheal A. Singer’s book, The Untethered Soul. There are some really helpful exercises in there which can help you tap into your truest self and reduce negative internal dialogue. There is plenty of space for you to write from the heart but also time to benefit from the beautifully crafted insightful messages. Here we remember that our happiness is not dependent on the external. Here we unearth the wholeness within. Happy journaling.

Don’t Worry, Be Happy: A Child’s Guide to Dealing With Feeling Anxious

By Poppy O’Neill  

This is one for the kids! If you have a bit of a worrier at home, this is a lovely guide aimed at children between 7-11. There are some fun activities to engage your child whilst actually helpfully addressing anxiety and big feelings. The book uses a relatable character called Fizz who is feeling worried. It has been cleverly arranged so children feel heard and supported. My favorite quote from the book is ‘anxiety comes from a healthy brain with a big imagination.’ It’s also great to get kids into daily writing habits so it’s a win, win.

Whatever you choose, get journaling. Knowing yourself will help you feel connected and centered. Wishing you much joy scribbling now and always.

Samantha Redgrave-Hogg