To type or to write? That is the question. While I prefer to type, I appreciate the pen much more. My algorithms have a lot to do with it. My phone keeps throwing me videos and articles, all aimed at convincing me that writing with a pen improves memory and clarifies thinking. I’m completely convinced!
Handwriting is a whole brain activity. Handwriting creates stronger neural networks than typing does. The reason why handwriting improves memory is because writing with a pen forces you to slow down and process information, it makes sense!
Neurologists say the pen beats the keyboard because of the hand movement involved in writing. Think of handwritten letters, which force the brain to slow down, actively process information, reflect, and delve deeper into memory. There’s a sensory function as well. Pressing pen to paper – feeling the pressure and shaping strokes – is a far superior act to typing quickly. It’s calming too.
Researchers in expressive writing have found that writing down feelings calms the brain’s fear centre and activates the thinking/decision area of the brain. It helps people to process emotions, reduce stress and gain clarity. In other words, writing helps you move from emotional reaction to clear thinking.
Try this calming and simple writing exercise:
Take a slow breath in… and out.
Write this sentence at the top of the page –
Right now, I feel
Keep writing without stopping.
- Don’t worry about spelling or neatness
- Just write whatever comes into your mind
- If you get stuck, repeat: “Right now, I feel…”
Shift to calm by closing your eyes and taking some deep breaths
Now finish writing with these prompts –
- One thing I can control is…
- One small thing that would help me feel calmer is…
- Right now, I am okay because…
Creating Calm 4-week short writing for wellbeing course opens in the WriteWell Community in April. Join today and recieve 14 days of writing for free.
