Journalling vs Unsent Letter

I now have a really good idea of what is causing me the back pains and dizziness - my best friend's relationship with his wife, which has so many similarities to my relationship with my mum.

I have been journalling about it for most of the last three or four months (and probably more), with my pains only intensifying by the week.

My TMS therapist has advised me to write an unsent letter. Has anyone had any pain reduction from writing an unsent letter, rather than journalling?

 

My advice is write the unsent letter. Yes, I have done this, but not related to TMS. I have directed clients to do this, and I think it was part of what helped them.

The unsent letter is "better" than journaling because you are getting a chance to express yourself directly to the person. This has potency. Let yourself say whatever comes to your heart.

Good Luck!!

 

Hi, NIClubber. I like Andy's advice and explanation very much. Writing an unsent letter allows you to address a specific person and issue better than journaling about it. Let it all hang out in your letter. Be honest and, if necessary, angry. Your TMS therapist was right-on suggesting the letter.

 

Problem is that I still don't really know what it is that is causing me to be so angry - there are so many things. At the moment, I believe that he is being bullied by his wife to changing into a completely different personality from what he has been in the past, and it seems to be that it is an abusive relationship.

 

All the details will come out when you start writing. And you don't have to make sense to your analytical mind. Forgive me, but it seems you're overthinking this, which might be part of your TMS personality. Write a letter. Sense into your body, notice how you feel. If you want to write a different letter you can do that to in the next minute, or the next week. Write ten until you get it perfect. It does not matter.

 

"Dear _____,
I dont know why, but I am quite angry with you. I think it has to do with_______________. I notice that I have _________________thoughts and feelings about you. I wish you would ______________. I'd like you to stop ________________. Etc!"

You get this far, NIClubber, and then you see where it leads you!