September 22nd is Dear Diary Day, a special occasion to celebrate the practice of documenting our lives. On this day, we write an extra entry to honor the role diaries play in our daily routines. For those who don’t keep a diary, it’s the perfect opportunity to start.

The Best Time to Write in Your Diary

The best time to write in your diary is at the end of the day, when you’re in your favorite pajamas and ready to unwind. This quiet moment allows you to reflect on your day, capture your thoughts, and relax before bed.

The Benefits of Keeping a Diary

Also known as journaling, studies have shown that expressing our thoughts in written form every day reduces anxiety and stress. It also broadens our vocabulary and language skills. By writing our stressors out on paper or tapping them out on the computer, we organize our thoughts and develop tools for dealing with our everyday struggles. Through long-term journaling and diary-keeping, we focus our energy on resolving issues and achieving goals. Over time, a diary can offer many rewards, including cherished memories. We can see our successes and learn from our mistakes.

More Than Just Stress Relief

But diaries aren’t just for reducing stress. They offer us a glimpse into how we change and remind us of events long forgotten. Diaries also offer a reference for future generations. While many may think of diaries as a place to keep precious secrets, they also provide a look at how life has changed from one generation to another. They serve as a reminder of ways long forgotten, words no longer in use, or attitudes that were once acceptable.

• Write a Special Entry: At the end of the day, put on your favorite pajamas, get comfortable, and write a special entry in your diary. Reflect on how your diary has progressed over time.
• Start a New Diary: If you don’t have a diary, consider starting one today. Treat yourself to a cozy pair of pajamas to make the experience even more enjoyable.
• Explore Published Diaries: Read diaries of notable people to gain inspiration. Curl up in your pajamas with a good diary and a cup of tea.
• Share Your Experience: Share your favorite entry and use #DearDiaryDay to post on social media. Snap a picture of your diary and your comfy pajamas to share with others.

Types of Diaries

There are a variety of diaries people keep. Many people maintain weather diaries, tracking weather changes from year to year, usually specific to their location. A similar diary is a garden diary, where people record the plants they grow, tracking when they plant, when a species blooms, insects observed, and more. People also keep food, work, maternity, travel, idea, dream, fitness, art, and writing diaries. Depending on the type of diary, it may be important to write in it every day, especially if it tracks changes in health or reactions to food. Travel diaries may only be updated when visiting new places, while dream diaries are typically written in only when a dream occurs.

Take a moment to appreciate the value of keeping a diary. Whether you’re a seasoned diarist or just starting, Dear Diary Day is a wonderful opportunity to reflect and document your journey. Slip into your favorite pajamas, grab your diary, and happy writing!