If this past year has left your brain on the verge of bursting with too much news, too much information, and too many talking heads repeating and analyzing the same news and information (much of it not even accurate), it’s time for a brain dump. Rather than running down the street broadcasting everything you’ve heard or boring your family to tears with stuff they already know, here’s a better idea: Try journaling.

According to Wendy Griffis with Better Homes & Gardens Lifestyles Realty, “Studies show you can find more happiness and less stress with a daily download … journaling is a great way to reflect on the past year and prepare for the new one —and it’s scientifically proven to work!”

Journaling reduces stress, provides relief in tough times, and improves health, memory, and emotional well-being. Let’s say you’re convinced. How do you begin? First, find your journaling style. Do you think in bullet points, pictures, letting the thoughts just flow, mind mapping, or keeping track of what you’re grateful for?

Do you write in longhand or on the computer? If you prefer to write your thoughts, take a trip to Barnes & Noble, Michael’s, or Office Depot, and find your favorite journal. You’ll know it when you see it. If you’d rather type than write, here are some apps designed for journaling on your smartphone: Day One, Diarium, Penzu, Five Minute Journal, and Momento. All except Momento work on both IOS and Android; Momento is strictly IOS.

All set? Great. And it’s fine if you didn’t begin on January 1, 2022. Start wherever you are and whenever you are ready. Happy journaling! For more information, write Wendy Griffis, at griffisrealtor@comcast.net.