What are the Benefits of Journaling for stress relief or tracking feelings? 

Journaling is one way we can express our thoughts and feelings.  It allows us to get them down on paper, externally, for a bit of distance and review (if we are so inclined).  

Practicing Gratitude Daily – two examples of creative outlets to bolster personal health. 

So there is the old technique of counting your blessings (what some refer to as taking an inventory of “gratefulness”).  Other techniques include reframing (i.e., considering activities like working out or walking the dog as opportunities rather than chores).

Relaxation – why is this important to your mental health?

Decompression and relaxation are important counter-balances to the stress of everyday life that many of us contend with.  

Acknowledgment of Negative Feelings and How to turn these feelings into positive feelings? 

It’s important to acknowledge your feelings to yourself, even those which can be more difficult to experience (anger, frustration, envy, sadness, anxiety, etc.).  Once you are aware of how you are feeling, then you can do things to process those feelings (i.e., via activities that you find restorative and rejuvenating).  

What is your feeling on stress as an activator for achieving positive goals?  

Stress is not necessarily always bad:  it can provide energy and motivation to accomplish tasks and achieve goals.  It’s important to consider your individual response to stress and how much or how little feels optimal for you.  

Summary – with a daily check-in and management of these feelings, can stress and anxiety support a healthy lifestyle?  

 Yes, depending upon your relationship to these feelings.