Writing for Relaxation

I have been writing for Associated Content for a little over two months now. I find it to be one of the highlights of my week to write an article. Writing for me is relaxing. It lets me sit back and just let things go. Usually, I will put a pillow behind my back on the couch, pour myself a glass of Coke, turn on The Beatles, and just let myself fall into the story.

I have tried different things, and to be honest, I prefer writing fiction to articles. It lets me completely fall into the story and become someone else. However, writing these articles is amazingly therapeutic as well. I couldn't seem to figure out why though. When writing a story, it is a bit of an escape, you create a world and characters and you walk with them on their journeys. But, then why does writing an article relax me too? I tried to think of a reason.

I suppose in today's fast-paced world, I tend to shut off my brain to an extent. So, when I restart it, it's quite an enjoyable experience. But, that is not all. When I write, I feel like I'm releasing something. I feel like I'm carrying this burden on my shoulders and writing somehow releases it from me.

From what I have heard, this is quite common. There is no known scientific explanation (at least not that I can find), however I have found multiple writers who claim to experience the same thing. Stephen King has vowed to quit writing on multiple occasions, but he always ends up going back. Most professional writers claim that they can not go too long without writing or they become irritable and stressed. But, clearly this is not something that happens only to a professional. I can't go a week without writing without feeling stressed. Any more than a week, and I start getting a bit short-tempered.

I encourage everyone out there to write a fiction story at least once. Even if you have no interest in writing. And also to try your hand at writing articles. Every time I tell a friend about Associated Content, and suggest it to them, I get the same response, "Eh, I wouldn't know what to write about." Write about anything! Just write.

I believe that if more money was invested in the arts and English programs, it could potentially bring down the rate of drug use. When people are encouraged to use their brains, they're more inclined to want to use it, and that's the kind of thing that could change the world.