My daily practice of journaling, yoga and meditation changed my life. 

When I was seven, I made my own journal out of legal pad paper—a little book that sparked a lifelong passion for writing down my thoughts, feelings and desires. E. M. Forster asks, “How do I know what I think until I see what I say?” Here’s my take: “How do I know who I am until I see what I think?” Journal writing has been proven to combat stress and help treat eating disorders, depression, addiction and other psychologically rooted problems. People who write about past traumas show stronger immune systems.

After my mom died, my autoimmune illnesses flared up. In pain, I made mistakes at work, snapped at my children and avoided my friends. I just wanted to curl up in a ball and stay in bed.

But each morning, I lit a candle, wrote in my journal, practiced yoga and engaged in meditation. Soon I renewed my friendships, enrolled in graduate school and embarked on a new career.

Years later, my morning routine—centered around journaling—still fuels my days. Each prompt is designed as a launching pad to help you learn more about yourself and become the person you want to be.

To receive prompts, please subscribe or contact me at journalingwithjenny@gmail.com.