THE POWER OF THE PEN

Sending Christmas cards is not only a nice gesture – it can be good for you, too. Mindful writing tutor Katie Sone explains how writing by hand can boost your wellbeing. ‘Every December, you’ll find me at my desk with a pile of Christmas cards and my address book; Michael Bublé is on in the background and a steaming mug of hot coffee sits in front of me.

For me, writing Christmas cards is a way of connecting, of easing my mind and attaining calm and clarity amid the hectic pace of the season.

As a freelance project manager and writer working from home, I’m a bit of an introvert. I’ve found that writing things down allows me to order and make sense of my thoughts. Which is why, seven years ago, I decided to set up my business, Write Mindful, offering workshops to create a safe atmosphere where people can unclutter their minds and release their thoughts on to a page.

We all know that Christmas can be a busy time of year, but by sitting down in a relaxing space with your pen and cards, you’re giving yourself a moment of time. Writing by hand slows everything down, encouraging us to really think about the words we’re forming.

This year, when many people have not seen friends and relatives, I think it’s more important than ever to connect with others. Hearing from a friend after so much distance cannot be underestimated.’ •writemindful.co.uk

‘Writing by hand slows everything down, encouraging us to really think’