Written by Tammy Machmali
I want to introduce you to a cool practice that can really make a difference for you from the moment you wake up – Morning Pages! If you don’t already know about it.
I don't know how you wake up, but I used to wake up with a crazy mind, like a monkey on a wheel. I just didn't feel like wanting to see or hear everyone since I think that I carry the world on my shoulders. Back in college, a friend introduced me to the practice of Morning Pages. I found this daily writing thing, not knowing it would become a helpful guide to clear my mind and give me answers.
Every morning, as I wrote all my thoughts and worries on paper, vomiting on paper all my mind garbage, something awesome happened. Morning Pages became my secret action, where all the mess in my head found a way out, and suddenly, I started feeling calm throughout the day, and things got super clear. It's like using a pen to find your way to a peaceful, calm you, and a more intentional life.
Now, let's talk about Morning Pages. What are they? Ever heard of this creative writing thing? Julia Cameron, in her great book "The Artist's Way," introduced me to it. Imagine this – three pages of pure, unfiltered thoughts every morning, no judgment - it is a brain dump. Like you are purging, vomiting on paper. I write all my hardships, small things I hate to do, struggles, challenges, resentments, etc.
The goal? Clear your mind, unlock creativity, and get some cool insights. Why bother, you ask? Well, Morning Pages are like a mental clean-up. First, they throw out all the clutter, help you chill, and let your creativity fly high. It's like a superhero move for solving problems, discovering more about yourself, and building up your discipline skills. Plus, it's like a daily hangout with mindfulness and gratitude – a bit like a spa day for your brain.
Benefits of Morning pages:
Morning Pages are important for several reasons:
Clearing Mental Clutter: Morning Pages serve as a mental "dumping ground." By writing down your stream of consciousness, you can release and clear out the clutter of thoughts, worries, and distractions that may be occupying your mind. This can provide a sense of relief and mental space to focus on your day.
Stress Reduction: The act of writing out your thoughts and emotions can be therapeutic. It allows you to express and process your feelings, reducing stress and anxiety. Morning Pages can serve as a form of emotional release and self-care.
Enhancing Creativity: Morning Pages can unlock your creativity. When you let your thoughts flow freely without judgment or self-censorship, you may uncover new ideas, insights, and creative solutions to problems. It's a tool for tapping into your inner creativity.
Problem Solving: Writing about challenges or dilemmas in your Morning Pages can help you gain clarity and perspective. It's a way to brainstorm and explore potential solutions or next steps.
Self-Discovery: Morning Pages can be a valuable tool for self-discovery and self-reflection. As you write about your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, you may gain deeper insights into your beliefs, values, and goals.
Building Self-Discipline: Making Morning Pages a daily habit helps build self-discipline and consistency. It encourages you to set aside time each morning for reflection and self-expression, which can spill over into other areas of your life.
Boosting Confidence: Over time, the act of consistently completing your Morning Pages can boost your confidence in your ability to follow through with daily practice. This sense of accomplishment can have a positive ripple effect on other areas of your life.
Enhancing Mindfulness: Writing Morning Pages encourages you to be present and mindful in the moment. You become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, which can improve your overall mindfulness and awareness.
Cultivating Gratitude: Some people use Morning Pages as an opportunity to express gratitude. Starting your day by writing down things you're thankful for can shift your focus toward positivity and appreciation.
Self-Care: Morning Pages are a form of self-care. Taking time each morning to check in with yourself, process your thoughts, and nurture your creative side can contribute to your overall well-being.
Now, here's how to do Morning Pages. Get a notebook, a pen, and follow these steps:
Set Aside Time: Find a cozy morning moment before the day goes wild.
Find Quiet Space: Claim your spot where no distractions can bug you.
Start Writing: Write by hand, aiming for three pages.
Write Freely: No judging allowed! Pour out everything, even if it seems kinda random.
Keep Writing: Don't stop until three pages are full – just let the thoughts roll after all remember this is your brain dump not your college essay.
No Editing or Judgment: Your inner critic gets a day off.
No Specific Purpose: No big goals, just a daily chat with your creative side.
Be Consistent: Do it every day for the full magic to kick in.
Review (Optional): Look later if you feel like it, but it's totally cool if you don't.
Let Go: After those three pages, let them go; no strings attached. I personally enjoy burning them or ripping the paper with joy because afterwards I feel a sense of release and calmness.
And about those old Morning Pages – treat them like a meditation session. Once they're done, let them fly away. Some folks make it a fancy farewell party, others do a symbolic goodbye by burning or burying them.
Why are Morning Pages a big deal? They're your structured way to get clear, chill out, boost your creativity, and discover more about yourself. It's a journey worth taking for personal growth and feeling good. So, give it a shot! Explore the awesome power of Morning Pages in your life. Trust me, it's a ride you'll love. If you start the practice, let me know. I would love to hear about your journey and experience with your morning pages.
So, why wait? Start your journey towards a better tomorrow today.
If you like to continue reading you are welcome to check Embracing a Higher Power: Unlocking the Path to Success and Healing or other blogs.
And if you need help and have questions, feel free to send me a message and connect with me.
Sending you all the love and light on your healing journey!
If you're curious to dive deeper into these strategies or share your thoughts, reach out to me contact. Let's make 2024 a year of unconditional love, courage and success, advancing toward your vision and goals one action at a time.
I'd love to help you get started: To assist you on this journey, I've prepared a Free workbook on 26 Ways to Release Mental & Emotional Baggage In Less Than 5 Minutes A day. Or if you like to join for more videos my Youtube channel
Check out my new book My book
Wishing you a day filled with small steps towards a healthier, happier you!
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