Why Keep a Journal?
The pendulum opens a door. The journal is where you walk through it. Writing after a session — even a few lines — anchors the insight before it dissolves back into the noise of the day. Over time, your journal becomes a map of your inner life: patterns emerge, questions deepen, and the quiet voice within grows louder and clearer.
I have selected a journal here that has many options for covers and the pages look nice and smooth. Some spell books have aged pages and I don't find that as conducive when working with free and automatic writing — but then again, use your own compass. Resin Style Mountain Landscape Journal on Etsy
How to Use Your Journal
Write your question or intention. Don't overthink it — a single sentence is enough. What are you bringing to the board today?
Note the pendulum's responses as they come. Directions, hesitations, strong swings. Let the hand move without editing.
Free write for five minutes. What arose? What surprised you? What do you want to sit with? Don't analyse — just record.
Return to old entries. Patterns you couldn't see in the moment often become clear weeks later. Your journal is a living document.
Doodling as Language
Not everything that surfaces in a session can be put into words. Doodling alongside your writing gives the subconscious another channel. A shape, a symbol, a scribble — these carry meaning too. Don't judge what appears on the page. Let it be there.
Toward Automatic Writing
With practice, journaling after a session can evolve into something deeper — automatic writing, where the hand moves with less conscious direction. This is not a destination to rush toward. It arrives naturally, in its own time, when the channel between the conscious and subconscious mind has been tended with patience and honesty.
Begin Your Practice
Each custom board package includes a personal journal chosen to complement your board's energy — a place to begin the conversation with yourself.
See the Boards