Discovering you’re pregnant is an incredible moment, filled with excitement and anticipation. One essential way to cherish this journey is through journaling. Documenting your pregnancy offers equal and lasting rewards, as many parents do after their child is born (Dunn, 2020). We’ll delve into some reasons why starting a journal during pregnancy is equally valuable.
Why Journal?
Journaling is a personal expression of thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Whether written, drawn, or typed, it is a way to capture the unique journey of pregnancy. Think of it as a treasured diary you’ll cherish forever. Let’s dive into my experience followed by the benefits of keeping a pregnancy journal.
My Experience with Journaling
My first experience with consistent journaling came during a learning programme. This module got me into the habit of recording daily reflections. While pregnant with my daughter, I decided to keep up on journaling by documenting every moment. I plan to give this journal to her when she’s old enough to appreciate it.
So, four years into our marriage, the joy of seeing a positive pregnancy test was unforgettable. As a result of this excitement, I wanted to capture every moment, so I began documenting from the start. My daughter’s journal is filled with experiences and emotions from that special time. The journal also includes ultrasound pictures which made the experience feel real.
A Glimpse at My Journal
Journaling allowed me to revisit my emotions and memories. As mentioned, I included ultrasound photos to commemorate those miraculous moments. Nearly four years later, reading the journal brings tears of joy as I reflect on those precious memories. All of it makes the journaling experience worth it.
Research Insights
According to Little berry button, (2021) journaling might seem daunting, especially for new moms, (or a pregnant woman) but it doesn’t have to be complicated. Even a single sentence can capture a memory. Studies suggest that journaling has numerous benefits, (WebMD Editorial Contributors, 2024) including mental health support and personal growth.
People journal for different reasons because it helps in various ways. Here are key reasons why pregnant (or postpartum moms) should write down their thoughts and experiences:
Benefits of Pregnancy/Postpartum Journaling
- Mental health boost: Writing can enhance emotional well-being.
- Bonding: Journaling has a way of strengthening the connection with your baby.
- Making memories: Writing also creates a lasting memoir of your journey.
- Cognitive Benefits: This habit can improve self-confidence and even boost IQ.
- Skill Development: As a pastime, journaling can cultivate writing skills and potential career paths.
Conclusion
Journaling is a personal way to express your journey. This could be through pregnancy, or postpartum or any other season of life you may find yourself in. Journaling supports mental health while preserving memories you might otherwise forget. The benefits of journaling far outweigh any negatives, making it a meaningful practice.
Action Point
Hey preggie mama, have you considered keeping a pregnancy journal? What are your thoughts on capturing this journey in writing?
Reference
Dunn, J. 2020. New Parents, You Won’t Regret Keeping A Journal. Accessed on 22 July 2024. Available at: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/10/26/parenting/baby-book-journal.html
Little Berry Button. 2021. 5 Simple Baby Memory Book Tips For Busy Moms. Accessed on: 23 July 2024. Available at: https://littleberrybutton.co.uk/blog/benefits-of-journaling#:~:text=Cited%20as%20one%20of%20the,the%20birth%20experience%20and%20parenthood.
WebMD Editorial Contributors. 2024. How Journaling Can Help Ease Anxiety and Encourage Healing. Accessed on 24 July 2023. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/mental-health-benefits-of-journaling