CLARITY Competence Area

Nurturing connection to oneself, others and nature, Nurturing connection to oneself, others and nature

GreenComp Competence Area

Embracing Complexity in Sustainability, Embracing Complexity in Sustainability

Why use this tool?

Journalling on our inner climates or on the gratitude we experience helps open up to the emotions we feel, keep track of our health and wellbeing, reflect on relationships to ourselves, others and nature, and enhances our tolerance to experiencing multiple emotions, sometimes simultaneously. Even trying these exercises once can be a valuable experience for learners to connect with their inner worlds. The pupils who go on to establish a habit of journaling focusing on their feelings and emotions can experience emotional release and are gathering material to identify patterns or triggers that cause stress or are activated in times of stress. Gratitude journaling has been proven to reduce stress in times of uncertainty. Students who practice journalling will have an invaluable resource to draw on in times of crisis.

Activities in this tool

  • Journalling on how we are

    Journalling on how we are

    Accepting our feelings is linked to better psychological health, improved moods and reduced anxiety. Actively inhibiting negative emotions takes a considerable effort, stressing the body and mind. Confronting emotions can…

    Activity number:

    2.1.1

  • Gratitude journal

    Gratitude journal

    Gratitude journalling both regulates the sympathetic nervous system that activates our anxiety responses at the neurobiological level, and conditions the brain towards more positive thoughts at the psychological level. Therefore,…

    Activity number:

    2.1.2