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I've been thinking about all of us who post messages, and blog, on this site (as well as on our individual health-related sites), and I started wondering: how does blogging make you healthier?
We've talked about the act of writing, or journaling, as a great way to reinforce positive behaviors, and possibly change negative behaviors by bringing them into perspective. (an example: great tool for weight management is to keep a food diary). And, as far as research goes, I believe James Pennebaker of the University of Texas (my alma mater!) is the leader in health benefits of journaling. (I highly recommend his book, Opening Up).
Another possible way blogging can produce health benefits is that this online community serves as s support group. The Mayo Clinic has some great information about the power of mental health support groups.
What is your motivation for writing, journaling, sharing and/or blogging about health? Do you think it makes you healthier? If so, in what ways?
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On one of my blogs, I have written: "Blogging is sanctioned opining." I'm very opinionated and I blog to stir things up in cyberspace, haha!
July 28, 2008 - 4:07pmThis Comment
Last weekend, I attended a conference where one of the topics was 'Community as a healing force.' Several women with various health and personal issues discussed how readers can be a tremendous source of strength -- as you mentioned in your post.
In turn, members of the community or readers said that the women bloggers were a tremendous source of inspiration.
Despite huge obstacles, the bloggers shared the humor in many situations, very human frustration and many times, grace and appreciation.
A few readers even commented that if they knew the blogger personally, the blogs helped to enrich their face-to-face time because they weren't recalling the various tests, procedures or outcomes of doctors or hospital visits. It was all already 'out there' and they could focus on other aspects of their relationships.
July 27, 2008 - 6:33pmThis Comment