Words and bodies

This is a post about something I’m still figuring out, so I’ve paywalled most of it.

The core of it is this: Have you noticed that there’s something really interesting going on with the physicality of handwriting?

I’m somewhat erratic about keeping up the practice, but I go through phases where I do a lot of hand written journalling, and it’s been particularly interesting as an experience recently and so it has me thinking about it more.

Before I drop into the paywalled section, here’s a spell for you to try:

Emotional processing journalling

1. Get a sand timer for writing (I use a 45 minute one)

2. Get a pad of A4 paper and a pen (I think a fountain pen is ideal for this, but whatever works for you).

3. Sit somewhere with no devices and a good place to lie down available (I use a sheepskin rug for this, but a bed or yoga mat would be fine). Set up the space to be conducive to writing (e.g. I light a candle for journalling).

4. Set your timer and write about whatever you like until the timer finishes.

5. Your writing should consist of simple declarative sentences that fit on one line. I find it helpful to add a blank line between each statement. Don’t try to keep the topic consistent, write whatever comes up.

6. Whenever you start feeling physically agitated or some strong emotion starts to come up, stop writing and perform ragged breathing.

7. At any point you want to, step away from the journalling and pace about, or lie down, or in general move however your body wants to move. Return to journalling when you are ready.

You may or may not experience this, but for me this process sometimes produces very strong physical effects. If you’re easily triggered (e.g. have cPTSD), you might want to be careful about doing it and/or have some good recovery strategies.