What is storytelling?
Storytelling can be described as the telling of, or the writing of a story.
So why is it good for our wellbeing and our mental health?
Stories are often told as a means of engagement, to capture an audience and to share a personal experience. We become storytellers when we share a negative experience or an event that changed our narrative. When we share our stories we are creating an environment that can positively impact our mental health. It also benefits the listener as it increases their awareness and attention, and has the potential to increase oxytocin levels, which is associated with empathy and happiness.
When we are empathetic towards others, we have the ability to connect and to understand. Our relationship can be strengthened and we may see a shift in our emotions; we become better people.
There are powerful reasons for storytelling –
- The power to become an active listener
- Connect with others,
- Learn,
- Change perspective,
- Better engagement,
- Improve memory,
- Increased optimism,
- Increase imagination,
- Decrease lonliness,
There are many more positive reasons for Storytelling.
We have been handed down family stories that stay with us and help us to remember people we may have lost.
Stories allow us to be heard, and to share experiences to help others.
In healthcare, we hear stories about struggles and sadness. However, a story shared can give hope to the listener(s).
To acknowledge someone’s story is to show kindness and empathy. To listen carefully and fully engage allows the storyteller to grow and become a meaningful conduit for deeper connections.
We use stories to make positive changes and to create impact and purpose.
A story that is shared, evokes a conversation or a memory.
Stories are a gateway to a new world.