Writing to Save Your Life

Writing to Save Your Life
Michele Weldon
Hazelden
ISBN: 1-56838-742-3
Non-Fiction, Self Help, Writing, Journaling
Reviewed by Dr. Tami Brady

I have noticed a pattern in my own life. During those periods of my life when I am journaling, I am much more focused and willing to examine those parts of myself that need healing or parts of my life that need to be revamped. Therefore, I wholeheartedly agree with the author that writing is a healing process that can save a life or can help recreate an unhealthy one.

Writing to Save Your Life takes the reader through various exercises to get them started with the journaling process. It provides tips on how to get to the crux of the real problem in order to reduce unnecessary distractions and to quicken the healing effects of the process. The author also provides various strategies and general themes to start journaling as well as strategies about how to deal with the raw emotions that will come up when exploring the past and present issues.

I have to say that the part of the book that I found most relevant and useful was the story about the pillows. Basically, the author had been making countless pillows to fill her time so she never actually had to deal with her pain. We all have our pillows. There is always some excuse why we can’t face ourselves or follow our dreams. What is your pillow?