2023-04-20 15:23 Welcome

Creating your space and finding your way

Set up your space and your sessions. I invite you to dedicate at least 10-15 minutes a day to the practice.

As we embark on this transformative process with AwakenYou, it's essential to create a dedicated space where you can fully immerse yourself in the journalling process. Preparing your space with intention sets the stage for a more focused, authentic, and mindful experience. Here's a brief introduction to setting up your space and the materials you'll need to complete the program.

1 | Choose a quiet and comfortable space

Select a spot where you feel relaxed and undisturbed. This could be a cozy corner of your bedroom, a peaceful spot in your garden, or a dedicated nook in your living room. Prioritise your comfort and minimise distractions.

2 | Personalise your space and ground the senses

Make your journalling area a reflection of what makes you feel connected and is designed to foster a haven for creativity. You can put your vision board in the space, inspiring images, add plants for a touch of nature, or include candles or essential oils to create a calming atmosphere.

When you enter into a session, have a ritual to mark the start of you entering into the space of journalling. This is where you can use props or small enhancers that help to connect you to your sense, like incense, sage, scented candles, a warm drink, some deep intentional breaths and soft music.

If you are choosing to listen to music as you journal, aim for instrumental music that has minimal or no lyrics in it. This impacts on a process within the brain called the phonological loop (responsible for language processing) and can interfere with your writing process.

3 | Secure your sacred journal

To complete the AwakenYou program, you'll need a few essential items:

A journal: Choose a notebook that resonates with you and feels special, whether it's a beautifully bound diary or a simple spiral-bound pad. Again, this is about making intentional choices that help to set the tone. You might want to have a specific journal that is dedicated to your AwakenYou experience.
Writing utensils: Select pens, pencils, or markers in colours that inspire you and facilitate self-expression.
Optional: You may want to incorporate additional materials like coloured pencils or stickers to add an extra layer of creativity to your journalling experience.

4 | Set an intention before each session

Before you begin each journalling session, take a moment to set an intention for your practice. This can be as simple as "I will be honest with myself" or "I will explore my feelings without judgment." Setting an intention helps create a mindful and purposeful journalling experience.

When you are writing, it is important to write freely and without censorship. Some things might feel difficult or "icky". Be gentle and compassionate with yourself and be guided through the discomfort, as this is where true healing and growth makes its way into your heart.

5 | Establish a regular practice and new habit

Integrate journalling into your daily experience. It's okay if you have limited time. What's important is the consistency of journalling each day as part of a habit or routine. Find a time during the day when it will be most sustainable for you.

To get the most out of the program, I recommend committing an hour each month to participate in the monthly session and to listen to the meditation. You can do this at the start of each month in your own time, prior to starting the journal prompts. Following on from this, your journalling sessions can be adjusted to suit you, whether it's five minutes a day, or a full hour or two to take a deep dive.

It can take the body and mind 10-15 minutes to get into a flow state and for brainwaves to slow and relax us into a deeper, more connected state of mind. Take the time to relax into your practice, or if you feel agitated, unfocused or distracted, gently move through this by continuing on with journalling beyond this timeframe to reap the full benefits of journalling.

Each month, you might like to set a reminder or calendar time to "have a date with yourself" to complete the monthly session. You can call these dates something that resonates with you, like Self Love session, or Awaken session, or Growth session.

By preparing your space with intention and gathering the necessary materials, you're setting the stage for a meaningful and healing journalling experience. Remember to be patient with yourself, trust the process, and embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth that awaits you in the AwakenYou program.