The Science of Expressive Writing: How Words Heal the Brain
What happens in the brain when we put what we’re carrying into words?
In this episode of Solving for Joy, I’m joined by pediatrician, writer, and author Dr. Carolyn Roy-Bornstein to explore the science of expressive writing and why putting our experiences on the page can be so powerful.
We talk about writing through trauma, what research tells us about the brain and emotional processing, and how reflective writing can help physicians and other caregivers navigate burnout, reconnect with themselves, and make meaning from what they’ve lived through.
In This Episode
- The science behind expressive writing and the brain
- How writing can help us process trauma and difficult emotions
- Reflective writing as a tool for physician burnout and self-compassion
- A simple 15-minute writing practice you can try today
Chapters:
00:00 How Writing Can Help Us Heal
00:50 Meet Dr. Carolyn Roy-Bornstein
01:27 Reflective Writing for Trauma and Grief
05:05 How Sharing Our Stories Creates Connection
07:36 The Science Behind Journaling and Reflective Writing
10:03 Writing for Self-Compassion
10:51 Reflective Writing for Physician Burnout
14:47 Narrative Medicine and Healthcare
17:10 How Writing Helps Us Process Emotions
19:12 How to Start Journaling When You're Burned Out
23:30 The Science of Joy and Positive Emotions
26:37 Finding Meaning and Joy Through Writing
31:52 Sacred Moments in Medicine
32:39 A Reflective Writing Exercise to Try Today
Connect with Dr. Carolyn Roy-Bornstein
Book: A Prescription for Burnout: Restorative Writing for Healthcare Professionals
About Dr. Chrissie Ott
Dr. Chrissie Ott is a multi-board certified integrative physician, Professional Certified Coach (PCC), speaker, and founder of Joy Point Solutions. Through Solving for Joy, she explores the science and practice of living with greater meaning, alignment, and delight.
Stay Connected with Chrissie
For Physician Coaches & Healthcare Leaders
This episode explores reflective writing, journaling, physician burnout, narrative medicine, expressive writing, self-compassion, trauma, emotional processing, healthcare burnout, and finding meaning and joy.