Journaling: An Alchemy of Self-Reflection (In-Person Program)

Alchemy is the ancient art of transformation—turning something ordinary into something luminous. Journaling, too, can be an alchemical practice: a way of uncovering hidden truths, distilling insights, and reawakening to the quiet wisdom within.

Suleika Jaouad, a life-long journalist, is well known for her memoir, Between Two Kingdoms, inspired as a result of her long-time battle with leukemia in her early twenties. Jaouad’s newest novel, The Book of Alchemy: A Creative Practice for an Inspired Life, is organized by “life” themes ranging from new beginnings to love, loss, and rebuilding, coupled with journal responses and essays from a collective audience of writers, artists, and thinkers. As Jaouad describes in her introduction, the book is designed to expand our space to respond, to give us ideas and inspiration for how to choose our responses to life. The book also provides tools to engage with discomfort, to peel back layers, and to distill kernels of insight.

Liz Neal has found journaling to be a transformative practice, and she has a passion for sharing it with others. You are invited to join Liz in this two-part program that will include an introduction and overview of the book, as well as time for journaling, discussion and reflection as we explore several of the themes and writing prompts. Whether you are a beginner to the practice of journaling or looking for opportunities to expand your existing journaling practice, The Book of Alchemy is a tool to engage and provide a mirror to our inner selves.

Please Note: It is not necessary to purchase the book to participate in the program.

DATE: Fridays, 1/23 and 1/30/26 (Inclement Weather Date 2/6/26)

TIME: 1:00 – 2:30 PM

COST: $50

LOCATION: Well for the Journey – 120 W. Seminary Ave, Lutherville-Timonium, MD

REGISTRATION is required; please register here.

IMPORTANT: You will receive an email from programming@wellforthejourney.org at least 24 hours in advance of the start of your program. If you are unable to find the email, please check your SPAM or JUNK email folders. This email will include details to help you prepare for your program including any pertinent handouts, location information, and the ZOOM link for online programs. Please be sure you have received and read this email a minimum of 24 hours in advance of the start of the program. Thank you!

FACILITATOR: Liz Neal

FACILITATOR BIO: 
Liz has made journaling a routine practice for over 30 years. She has been blessed with a “heart for journaling” and now focuses on helping others discover the numerous benefits and insights that regular journaling can bring to their lives. Liz and her husband live in Lutherville. She has worked in education as a teacher and administrator for over 32 years. She loves spending time with her grandchildren, reading, and traveling.