Why Journaling Works: Brain Science Behind a Transformational Practice (Lynda Monk)

Neuroscience of Coaching

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Dr. Irena and Lynda Monk explore the benefits of journaling and its role in emotional regulation, self-awareness, and resilience. They discuss Lynda’s Life Source Writing method, which provides a structured approach to journaling that can be a transformative practice for coaches and clients alike.

In each episode of Neuroscience of Coaching, host Dr. Irena O’Brien explains the science-based insights behind a particular concept and interviews a coach to discuss how these apply in the real world. Just as she does in her professional programs, Irena “un-complicates” neuroscience and teaches practical, evidence-based tools and strategies that listeners can use in their coaching practices.

Key insights that Dr. Irena and Lynda discuss in this episode:

• Journaling activates brain regions involved in emotional processing.
• Reflective writing enhances self-awareness and decision-making.
• Regular journaling can lower cortisol levels and improve health.
• Journaling helps individuals cope with change and transition.
• It fosters self-compassion and acceptance of life’s ebbs and flows.
• Journaling can improve relationships through self-reflection.
• Journaling for joy can cultivate optimism and hope.
• Resistance to journaling is normal and can be addressed.
• The Life Source Writing method provides a structured approach.
• Journaling can be a powerful tool in coaching practices.

“Journaling helps us notice our needs.” — Lynda Monk

Guest Bio:

Lynda Monk, MSW, RSW, CPCC, is Director of The International Association of Journal Writing (IAJW.org), an inspiring community for journal writers worldwide. She is known for her profound insights into the therapeutic and life-changing power of journaling. Through her dynamic speaking engagements and educational sessions, she inspires individuals to harness the power of writing to heal and transform their lives. Lynda is the co-editor and co-author of several books including Affirmations for Self-Love – a guided journal; The Great Book of Journaling; Transformation Journaling for Coaches, Therapists and Clients; and Writing Alone Together. She is also the author of Life Source Writing™️. Lynda is Registered Social Worker and Certified Professional Life Coach, with 30+ years’ experience teaching, speaking, and coaching in the areas of burnout prevention, self-care, wellness, and writing to heal.

Host Bio:

Dr. Irena O'Brien teaches coaches and care professionals how to achieve better results for their clients through neuroscience.

She is the founder of Neuroscience School, which helps practitioners understand and apply insights from cutting-edge neuroscience research. She loves seeing her students gain confidence in their ability to evaluate neuroscience findings and use them successfully in their own practices. Her Certificate Program in Neuroscience is certified by the International Coaching Federation (ICF) for Continuing Coaching Education credit.

Dr. O'Brien has studied neuroscience for 25 years and holds a Ph.D. in the field from the Université du Quebec à Montréal (UQAM), where she did brain-imaging studies. She completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the Centre for Language, Mind, and Brain at McGill University.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Mirasee
Dr. Irena O'Brien’s website: The Neuroscience School
Lynda’s website: LyndaMonk.com
International Association of Journal Writing: IAJW.org

Special Free Mirasee FM Offer (Revenue Leak Checklist): www.mrse.co/leak

Credits:

Host: Dr. Irena O’Brien
Producer and Editor: Andrew Chapman
Executive Producer: Danny Iny
Music Soundscape: Chad Michael Snavely
Making our hosts sound great: Home Brew Audio

Music credits:

Track Title: Sneaker Smeaker
Artist: Avocado Junkie
Writer: Sander Kalmeijer
Publisher: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTION

Track Title: Coo Coos
Artist: Dresden, The Flamingo
Writer: Matthew Wigton
Publisher: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTION

Track Title: In This Light
Artist: Sounds Like Sander
Writer: Sander Kalmeijer
Publisher: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTION

Special effects credits:

24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.

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Episode transcript: Why Journaling Works: Brain Science Behind a Transformational Practice (Lynda Monk) coming soon.