Journaling x Meditation?

I think about the parallels between journaling and meditation often.

I think of meditation as spending time between thoughts, non-judgement of thoughts and feelings, respect of what's happening internally without fighting or arguing with it.

That usually looks like sitting quietly, eyes closed, being harmonious, watching thoughts go by.

But, that's what I do when I journal, no singing bowl, buckwheat cushion, or "ohms" needed.

What mindfulness demonstrates is exactly what my journaling philosophy is.

I "spend time between thoughts" through being deliberate about how I speak in my journal.

There is no judgement in my journal, I already see it as a mirror, not an evaluator.

I've learned how to have more self-compassion and to be non-judgmental toward my feelings.

It is rare that I vent in a journal and if I do, it's wondering what the possible solution might be or how I'll navigate the issue.

Sensitivity Journaling Practice

I do occasionally merge the two together through sensitivity journaling, a practice where I journal about my feelings describing sensations, naming them, noting triggers and patterns associated with them. In that practice, I do "meditate" in a sense. I sit on my bed, close my eyes, and generate a feeling.

I think about a scenario that brings it about and I just hold it in me, looking at it from multiple angles. I become curious about its transmutation, going from threatening to resolved. I find that no matter what feeling I do this to, the principle I reinforce (that feelings are just things, but you're the boss) applies to them all.

When the feeling is something spiritual (serendipity, granted, inspiration, awe, etc) I sit with those too. I want to be more sensitive to those feelings and be able to see them when I need them.

Any introspective journaling practice holds mindfulness principles

As long as there is a gap between brain and paper, and you see that gap as opportunity for choice, mindfulness principles are there.