Episode 18: Writing as a Tool for Processing Pain

Hi friend, and welcome back to The Journaling Room. I’m your host, Kendall Snyder, and today we’re talking about something tender and powerful—healing through journaling.

If you’ve ever wondered what it actually means to “process pain” or how writing can help with that, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re new to journaling or already have a rhythm, this episode will gently guide you into using your journal not just as a notebook—but as a safe space for healing.

entle Journaling Exercise: Sitting With Your Pain**

Let me offer you a journaling practice I give many of my clients—especially those walking through something hard. It’s simple, but it holds space for a lot.

Here’s how it goes:

1. Set a timer for 10 minutes.

Just 10 minutes. This is your time to be present with yourself.

2. Name the feeling.

Start with:

“Right now, I’m feeling...”

Let yourself name it honestly, even if it feels messy or contradicts itself.

3. Let the feeling speak.

Then write:

“If this feeling could talk, it would say...”

This helps you externalize the emotion and get curious instead of overwhelmed.

4. Offer compassion.

End with this:

“What does this part of me need to hear right now?”

Maybe it’s: “I see you.” Maybe it’s: “No wonder you feel this way.” Whatever it is, offer it gently.

You don’t have to fix everything in one sitting. The goal isn’t resolution—it’s presence. The healing often begins there.

Music by Aleksey Chistilin from Pixabay