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IN: Lifestyle, Wellness

10 Self-Care Journal Prompts for Tough Times

September 7, 2023 By Melanie No Comments

Writing has always been a significant part of my healing journey. My heart has spilled out on paper during some of the most difficult moments of my life.

From navigating the life changing effects of my parent’s divorce, to the sorrow of watching my childhood dog pass away in my arms, the heartbreak of calling off the wedding to my college sweetheart, and currently, the indescribable pain of pregnancy loss

Pages upon pages of notebooks are filled with some of my deepest thoughts, feelings, hopes, regrets, and worries.

I’ve come to realize through years of writing that sometimes the things we can not say aloud need to find a safe space to be shared, even if the words will never be read by anyone else.

My journals are a place to let go of all the thoughts weighing on my heart and release the negative feelings associated with them. It’s a simple form of self-care that I hope will bring you some comfort as well, no matter what you may be going through. If you aren’t sure where to begin, I’ve shared a few prompts to get started.

Save these journal prompts for when you may need them:

  1. Make a list of 10 things you are currently grateful for.
  2. Explore the things you are currently mourning and allow yourself to write openly about everything that is weighing on your heart. Remember, no one else will read it and you don’t have to revisit if you don’t want to.
  3. What is something you’ve learned about yourself in this season of life?
  4. Write about a previous time you’ve faced adversity and overcame it. What did you learn and how did it help you grow?
  5. Who in your life have you felt most supported by and what do you appreciate about them?
  6. Fill a page with kind words to yourself. Write everything you need to hear most right now.
  7. Write about a memory that makes you happy and share details as if you’re telling the story to a friend.
  8. Even when it seems like everything is going wrong, write about one thing that went “right” recently, no matter how small.
  9. Write a list of all of your strengths and how they have helped you get to where you are today.
  10. What are a few things that are within your control that you can shift your focus to?

Remember that journaling is a very private, personal activity and there’s no wrong way to approach it. If writing feels particularly healing to you right now, I recommend setting aside a few minutes every day to jot down your thoughts and check out THIS post if you’d like more tips on how to build a consistent journaling habit. If it has the opposite effect, then it is absolutely okay to save it for another time.

From my heart to yours,

Filed Under: Lifestyle, Wellness

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Meet Melanie

Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com

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#falliscoming #endofsummer #seasonaljoys #joyfulliving #autumnvibes #bermonths

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I asked everyone to bring a snack to share so of course went to my local Costco to pick up my contribution! I decided to make mini parfaits using @activiaus Variety Pack, which features multiple flavors and supports digestive health with billions of active & live probiotics. I layered the yogurt with fresh fruit and granola into mini jars and packed them in my picnic basket for all of us to enjoy! 🍓 

Be sure to stick around for part 2 to see the full picnic spread!

 {PS: between 8/27-9/21 you can get $4.50 off an Activia Variety Pack at Costco. While supplies last, offer valid in select locations}​

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As someone who has been very active for most of my adult life, I was so thankful to feel well enough to workout during my entire pregnancy — and I know it made the biggest difference for my mental and physical health. 

It’s been much harder to stay consistent postpartum… especially after dealing with multiple health issues. Let’s just say I very much understand the phrase “do it tired” now. But every time I show up for a workout, my little girl is a constant reminder of why I do it ✨💕

I lift weights so I can continue to carry her until she’s much older

I do cardio so I can keep up with her when she starts running around

I let her hangout with me while I workout so that one day she’ll be asking to join me 

And I take the time for myself to fill up my cup so I can pour right back into hers 

I may never have the perfect routine and my body may forever look different, but none of that matters if I can do my part to stay healthy for her 💛

Inspo: @jordan.friendly 

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I created DenFit from the ground up a few years ago and it’s really evolved into such a beautiful community! I couldn’t be more thankful — both for the awesome women who chose to spend their Saturday with us and to the amazing brands for making this possible! 

a BIG shoutout to: 

✨ @pvolvedenver for hosting us in their gorgeous studio and leading an awesome workout
✨ @lilybod for outfitting everyone in their navy blue matching sets (perfect for Fall!) 
✨ @truvani for the cutest gingham swag bags filled with their new whey protein powders 
✨ @getgorgie for the yummy sparkling green tea energy drinks in the best flavors
✨ @hellodarlinglittleraven for the ginger wellness shots 
✨ @clearstemskincare for the matcha eye patches
✨ @butterflybeauty.co for the complimentary scalp analysis and hair health tips 
✨ @linkxlou.den for the permanent jewelry station 

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✨save for later✨

🌸 instead of rigid routines, try creating “feel good” rituals that you can incorporate into your daily life

🦋 surround yourself with things that bring you joy: candles, photographs, art, fresh flowers, etc

💫 set the mood for the evening with soft lighting (no overhead lights allowed!), cozy candles, and a relaxing playlist 

🌱 practice the art of noticing by taking intentional moments of silence — whether you’re taking a walk, eating a meal or driving in the car 

🍯 embrace your favorite  hobbies (and maybe learn some new one)  to help you slow down and connect with your inner child 

👠 wear clothes that make you feel confident and put on a little skincare & makeup every morning to make you feel your best 

📸 capture the tiny details, whether through photos, videos or even writing them down in a journal. It helps train your eye to find the beauty around you 

📖 celebrate the small wins and treat yourself to that good wine, fancy jewelry or nice candle that you’ve been saving for a special occasion 

🍋 do one thing you love every single day, simply because it makes your heart feel full 

💕 find small ways to embrace the change of seasons whether it’s through home decor, seasonal recipes, making bucket lists or hosting friends & family 

What are some small ways you #romanticizelife everyday? 

#softwellness #softgirl #softgirlaesthetic #pinterestgirl #smalljoys #colorfulliving #intentionalliving #happyandhealthy


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Anyone else hoping “The Life of a Showgirl” is a full on girly pop album? 🤞🏼 

Sidenote this may have been my favorite outfit everrr and I need to come up with an excuse to wear it again ✨💖

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✨These 36 hobbies split across 6 categories are PERFECT for your 30s but can also be enjoyed at any age and are meant to help you discover new activities or reconnect with childhood favorites✨

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get you moving, support your health, release stress and give you a boost of endorphins

INTELLECTUAL
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CREATIVE
allow you to express yourself, tap into playfulness, relax and unwind 

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immerse you in fresh air, bring you scenic sights and foster your spirit of adventure 

SPIRITUAL
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Be sure to swipe through the list and SAVE for later! Let me know which ones you’ll be trying more of 💕


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The ‘ber months are almost here and I can’t wa The ‘ber months are almost here and I can’t wait to lean into all of the cozy vibes. Which of these are you most looking forward to this Autumn? 🍂 

#falliscoming #endofsummer #seasonaljoys #joyfulliving #autumnvibes #bermonths
#ActiviaPartner Picnic season is in full swing and #ActiviaPartner Picnic season is in full swing and this is your sign to invite a few friends for a picnic potluck at your local park! 🧺 

I asked everyone to bring a snack to share so of course went to my local Costco to pick up my contribution! I decided to make mini parfaits using @activiaus Variety Pack, which features multiple flavors and supports digestive health with billions of active & live probiotics. I layered the yogurt with fresh fruit and granola into mini jars and packed them in my picnic basket for all of us to enjoy! 🍓 

Be sure to stick around for part 2 to see the full picnic spread!

 {PS: between 8/27-9/21 you can get $4.50 off an Activia Variety Pack at Costco. While supplies last, offer valid in select locations}​
The most important 𝓌𝒽𝓎 behind the self-ca The most important 𝓌𝒽𝓎 behind the self-care 💛

As someone who has been very active for most of my adult life, I was so thankful to feel well enough to workout during my entire pregnancy — and I know it made the biggest difference for my mental and physical health. 

It’s been much harder to stay consistent postpartum… especially after dealing with multiple health issues. Let’s just say I very much understand the phrase “do it tired” now. But every time I show up for a workout, my little girl is a constant reminder of why I do it ✨💕

I lift weights so I can continue to carry her until she’s much older

I do cardio so I can keep up with her when she starts running around

I let her hangout with me while I workout so that one day she’ll be asking to join me 

And I take the time for myself to fill up my cup so I can pour right back into hers 

I may never have the perfect routine and my body may forever look different, but none of that matters if I can do my part to stay healthy for her 💛

Inspo: @jordan.friendly 

#healthylifestyle #healthyhabits #newmom #healthyandhappy #momlife💕 #wellness #wellbeingjourney #selfcarehabits
Had so much fun hosting an End of Summer Sculpt Pa Had so much fun hosting an End of Summer Sculpt Party for my @denverfitfriends gals yesterday and thought I’d give you a little ~ behind the scenes~ peek at what the day looked like ☺️💕

I created DenFit from the ground up a few years ago and it’s really evolved into such a beautiful community! I couldn’t be more thankful — both for the awesome women who chose to spend their Saturday with us and to the amazing brands for making this possible! 

a BIG shoutout to: 

✨ @pvolvedenver for hosting us in their gorgeous studio and leading an awesome workout
✨ @lilybod for outfitting everyone in their navy blue matching sets (perfect for Fall!) 
✨ @truvani for the cutest gingham swag bags filled with their new whey protein powders 
✨ @getgorgie for the yummy sparkling green tea energy drinks in the best flavors
✨ @hellodarlinglittleraven for the ginger wellness shots 
✨ @clearstemskincare for the matcha eye patches
✨ @butterflybeauty.co for the complimentary scalp analysis and hair health tips 
✨ @linkxlou.den for the permanent jewelry station 

Let me know if you like this #minivlog style and if you’d like me to bring you along to the next one! 

#denverfitness #girlhood #dayinthelife #healthylifestyle #wellness #wellbeing
10 things to do instead of doomscrolling on your p 10 things to do instead of doomscrolling on your phone✨because you deserve a little break after staring at big and little screens all week 😉

Swipe through for my favorite screen-free activities and let me know which ones you’ll be doing this weekend 👇🏼 

#cozyhobbies #romanticizeyourlife #smalljoys #happyhabits #intentionalliving #bepresent
You’ll never regret romanticizing your life… a You’ll never regret romanticizing your life… and here are 10 simple ways to get started 

✨save for later✨

🌸 instead of rigid routines, try creating “feel good” rituals that you can incorporate into your daily life

🦋 surround yourself with things that bring you joy: candles, photographs, art, fresh flowers, etc

💫 set the mood for the evening with soft lighting (no overhead lights allowed!), cozy candles, and a relaxing playlist 

🌱 practice the art of noticing by taking intentional moments of silence — whether you’re taking a walk, eating a meal or driving in the car 

🍯 embrace your favorite  hobbies (and maybe learn some new one)  to help you slow down and connect with your inner child 

👠 wear clothes that make you feel confident and put on a little skincare & makeup every morning to make you feel your best 

📸 capture the tiny details, whether through photos, videos or even writing them down in a journal. It helps train your eye to find the beauty around you 

📖 celebrate the small wins and treat yourself to that good wine, fancy jewelry or nice candle that you’ve been saving for a special occasion 

🍋 do one thing you love every single day, simply because it makes your heart feel full 

💕 find small ways to embrace the change of seasons whether it’s through home decor, seasonal recipes, making bucket lists or hosting friends & family 

What are some small ways you #romanticizelife everyday? 

#softwellness #softgirl #softgirlaesthetic #pinterestgirl #smalljoys #colorfulliving #intentionalliving #happyandhealthy
One grand weekend to bid farewell to summer☀️⛵️ {📍Grand Lake, CO}
Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m ju Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m just like every other basic B #swiftie who is sooo excited for TS12! 🥰🎶

Anyone else hoping “The Life of a Showgirl” is a full on girly pop album? 🤞🏼 

Sidenote this may have been my favorite outfit everrr and I need to come up with an excuse to wear it again ✨💖

#ts12 #romanticizeyourlife #summerconcert #summervibes #loverera #taylorswiftnation
Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨ #motherhoodi Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodismagic #newmomlife #girlmom
Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy and I can hardly believe how fast the time is flying ✨🎀

This time two years ago I said goodbye to our first baby at 11 weeks pregnant and I’ll never forget the kindness so many of you showed me. I still have many of your messages saved and thinking of them still brings me to tears 💛

If you are currently in the thick of fertility struggles, waiting, hoping and praying for your time — I see you and hope this gives you something beautiful to look forward to. Thank you for being part of my journey and I’m sending all the love your way 💫

#rainbowbaby #rainbowbabyday
My only goal this summer was to take notice of all My only goal this summer was to take notice of all the little things that spark joy and do them as often as possible 💫

{soft living, wellness, new motherhood, happy habits, mindfulness, cozy hobbies, be present, Pinterest aesthetic, summer vibes, mood board, wellbeing}
We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy h We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy habit that we can do more of. So if you’re wanting to make more time for yourself but not sure which hobby is right for you, this guide is for you!

✨These 36 hobbies split across 6 categories are PERFECT for your 30s but can also be enjoyed at any age and are meant to help you discover new activities or reconnect with childhood favorites✨

PHYSICAL 
get you moving, support your health, release stress and give you a boost of endorphins

INTELLECTUAL
keep your mind sharp, expand your perspective and help you follow your curiosity 

CREATIVE
allow you to express yourself, tap into playfulness, relax and unwind 

OUTDOORSY
immerse you in fresh air, bring you scenic sights and foster your spirit of adventure 

SPIRITUAL
nourishment your inner world, allow you to feel grounded, connected and more present 

COMMUNITY FOCUSED 
provide a sense of belonging, foster connection, deepen relationships and encourage collaboration
 
Be sure to swipe through the list and SAVE for later! Let me know which ones you’ll be trying more of 💕
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