Cognitive Benefits of Writing
Are you a card-giver? A letter crafter? I have always been in love with the art of writing- letters, journals, essays, lists, you name it. When I was in college, my brain would leap when the professor stated we had an essay, versus an exam of multiple choice questions, or worse, a presentation. Yes please, I would like to write out all my communications through my pen, versus having to speak to a room of 75 plus people. Letter writing, oh my, how I adore the styles of letter writing, the way you can engage in intimate, personalized communications simply though a stringing of choice words. This day in age, it is a rare mail gem to get an authentic hand written letter! Instead, your friends and family will track you down via text, facebook, or email. Don't get me wrong, I am fluent in these formats of communications as well, but my first love is letters!
Why am going on about this? There is great news. Various studies show that handwriting supports cognitive development and sustains certain aspects of brain health! Research suggests that a person who initiates the process of writing will actually stimulate different parts of the brain resulting in a greater cognitive strength. Check out the resources below to learn more about this beneficial, creative process!
Supportive Resources:
Check out this blog post by Kathy Mitchell, How Writing Improves Your Brain & Helps You Heal (be sure to click on the numerous studies she has referenced throughout the post): https://www.bookmeditationretreats.com/news/writing-brain-health
Writing as a Way of Healing: How Telling Our Stories Transforms Our Lives, By Louise Desalvo https://amzn.to/34nHsiF
The Forever Letter: Writing What We Believe For Those We Love, By Elana Zaiman https://amzn.to/34pN38a
Letters to My Love: Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever. (Love Letters, Love and Romance Gifts, Letter Books), By Lea Redmond * Recommended by Oprah! https://amzn.to/2WDbeNU
Letters to Open When... Write Now. Read Later. Treasure Forever. (Long Distance Relationship Gifts, Gifts for Friends), By Lea Redmond *Seen on Oprah! https://amzn.to/36t8HdB
Hand Lettering for Relaxation: An Inspirational Workbook for Creating Beautiful Lettered Art, By Amy Latta https://amzn.to/2Ciaftj
What resources get your creative writing energy flowing?
In Grace,
Cara