{"id":1114188,"date":"2024-03-27T11:55:32","date_gmt":"2024-03-27T15:55:32","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/?p=1114188"},"modified":"2024-11-21T16:03:43","modified_gmt":"2024-11-21T21:03:43","slug":"the-psychology-of-a-handwritten-card-how-it-benefits-both-the-sender-and-the-receiver","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/katee-fletcher\/2024\/03\/the-psychology-of-a-handwritten-card-how-it-benefits-both-the-sender-and-the-receiver\/","title":{"rendered":"The Psychology Of A Handwritten Card: How It Benefits Both The Sender And The Receiver"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"is-style-introduction\">Each day, new experiences blossom throughout our life that we want to adore forever. That\u2019s why Thought Catalog is partnering with <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.papyrusonline.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Papyrus<\/a><\/strong>, so any moment can be one to remember and share with those we love.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Someone recently quoted to me that \u201clife is a collection of experiences,\u201d meaning that life is bursting full of moments that are meant to be cherished, prized, and remembered. Immediately our minds go to milestone moments: birthdays, weddings, holidays, etc. But this \u201ccollection of experiences\u201d goes even beyond that\u2013helping your neighbor with the groceries and then staying for iced tea on the porch; holding your niece for the first time and watching your sister beam; being the first member of your family to graduate high school or college or graduate school; connecting with a new friend after a poetry reading; connecting with an old friend on the sidewalk. The list goes on and on, but all of this to say: how do we capture these bits of beauty that make us feel alive? One of the most fulfilling ways is through writing or receiving a card that encapsulates our thoughts forever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"768\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?w=850\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1114190\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg 4032w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=384,288 384w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=640,480 640w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=768,576 768w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=1024,768 1024w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=1536,1152 1536w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=2048,1536 2048w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9944.jpg?resize=1140,855 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Picture this: you\u2019ve just reconnected with an old friend and you\u2019re still feeling elated the next day thinking about your old memories together. You go to your local store and peek at the card aisle. Scanning the rows, you find a card that gleams at you as it brings that friendship to the forefront of your mind with artwork or a phrase you know would touch their heart. So, you add it to your cart and as you leave, you\u2019re giddy just thinking about sending it off, anxiously awaiting the excitement your friend will have the moment it arrives in their mailbox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you know that dedicating time to <a href=\"https:\/\/psycnet.apa.org\/record\/2022-85307-001\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">random acts of kindness<\/a> and frequently <a href=\"https:\/\/web.p.ebscohost.com\/ehost\/detail\/detail?vid=0&sid=5cf4f821-20e3-4f76-8ae8-37792444e9e1%40redis&bdata=JkF1dGhUeXBlPWlwLHNoaWImc2l0ZT1laG9zdC1saXZlJnNjb3BlPXNpdGU%3d#AN=2019-46223-001&db=pdh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">expressing gratitude<\/a> both lead to an uptick in overall happiness for both the giver and the receiver? Not to mention, card writing engages <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thinkingofyouweek.cards\/238-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">multiple sections of our brain<\/a> that improve memory, spatial awareness, and calm our nervous system from emitting stressors. That\u2019s why writing cards to our loved ones is the perfect way to boost dopamine levels in both parties and improve our minds, while also documenting a memory that you can both keep close and hold onto always.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"768\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?w=850\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1114192\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg 3024w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=384,288 384w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=640,480 640w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=768,576 768w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=1024,768 1024w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=1536,1152 1536w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=2048,1536 2048w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_02.jpg?resize=1140,855 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>As the sender, think about the joy you feel when pouring your thoughts, memories, and emotions into a card for someone you know and care for. There\u2019s nothing like it. Writing by hand gives us the ability to let our minds explore and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.topeducationdegrees.org\/proven-reasons-to-write-by-hand\/\">tap into our imagination<\/a>. We can dot our i\u2019s with hearts, turn our exclamation points into smiley faces, and doodle in the margins. Writing cards brings such a unique and wholesome touch to sharing our sentiments with a loved one. Then comes the happiness we feel when sealing the envelope shut, adding a stamp, and <a href=\"https:\/\/psycnet.apa.org\/record\/2004-22407-001\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sending it off<\/a>, knowing it\u2019s going to make someone\u2019s day brighter than it was before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>On the receiving end, getting a card is just as joyous, if not more. Our card arrives in the mail, a bright spot tucked between bills and fliers, piquing our interest during a task that\u2019s usually mundane. We get to tear open that envelope, see who it\u2019s from, admire the charming art on the front, and then finally, read what is written inside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Did you know that receiving a handwritten card from someone you love is proven to alleviate feelings of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.thinkingofyouweek.cards\/238-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">isolation and depression<\/a>? There\u2019s a certain intimacy and affection that comes from having a moment alone with the words written inside a card. We get an insight into our loved one\u2019s feelings through reading their thoughts and seeing their own quirky handwritten words, which can make us feel so much closer to them. We feel so loved and nurtured because they took the time to pick out the right card, write down what they felt, and mail it specifically to us. We get an insight into our loved one\u2019s sentiments and quirky handwritten words, making us feel so much closer to them. We feel so loved and nurtured because they took the time to pick out the right card, write down what they felt, and mail it specifically to us. It leaves the receiver feeling appreciated and looked after, adding a warmth to their heart and their day that was not there prior. Not to mention, <a href=\"https:\/\/web.p.ebscohost.com\/ehost\/detail\/detail?vid=0&sid=b7d00599-8963-4293-97d1-72e11d84588a%40redis&bdata=JkF1dGhUeXBlPWlwLHNoaWImc2l0ZT1laG9zdC1saXZlJnNjb3BlPXNpdGU%3d#AN=2019-46223-001&db=pdh\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the connection it fosters<\/a> between the sender and the receiver, making them feel closer than ever before.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" height=\"768\" width=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?w=850\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1114194\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg 3024w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=384,288 384w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=640,480 640w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=768,576 768w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=1024,768 1024w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=1536,1152 1536w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=2048,1536 2048w, https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/Papyrus-Planting_Card_01.jpg?resize=1140,855 1140w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>There are few things in life that fill our hearts so easily as writing or receiving a handwritten note. So the next time someone is on your mind, go the extra mile and send them a card. Out of hundreds of card options, pick the one you know will resonate with them. Open it up and write to them from your heart. Dot your i\u2019s with hearts; turn your exclamation points into smiley faces. Be creatively caring\u2013it\u2019ll go farther than you think.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-step-n-3-font-size has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p>Sources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"http:\/\/gruberpeplab.com\/teaching\/psych131_fall2013\/documents\/15.1_Dunn2008_Spendingmoneyothers.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Science Mag &#8211; Spending Money on Others Promotes Happiness<\/a><br>&#8211; <a href=\"https:\/\/psycnet.apa.org\/record\/2022-85307-001\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">APA PsycNet &#8211; A little good goes an unexpectedly long way: Underestimating the positive impact of kindness on recipients<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.psychologytoday.com\/us\/blog\/the-athletes-way\/201808\/handwritten-thank-you-notes-have-surprising-consequences\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Psychology Today &#8211; Handwritten Thank You Notes Have Surprising Consequences<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.topeducationdegrees.org\/proven-reasons-to-write-by-hand\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Top Education Degrees &#8211; Proven Reasons To Write By Hand<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wsj.com\/articles\/SB10001424052748704631504575531932754922518\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wall Street Journal &#8211; How Handwriting Trains The Brain<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/psycnet.apa.org\/record\/2004-22407-001\">APA PsycNet &#8211; The Pleasures of Uncertainty: Prolonging Positive Moods in Ways People Do Not Anticipate<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.thinkingofyouweek.cards\/238-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Thinking of You Week Interview with Dr. Lynda Shaw<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/journals.sagepub.com\/doi\/10.1177\/0956797618772506\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sage Pub Journal<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/search.ebscohost.com\/login.aspx?direct=true&AuthType=ip,shib&db=pdh&AN=2019-46223-001&site=ehost-live&scope=site&custid=s5071694\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ebscohost Journal<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Each day, new experiences blossom throughout our life that we want to adore forever. That\u2019s why Thought Catalog is partnering with Papyrus, so any moment can be one to remember and share with those we love.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":161774534,"featured_media":1114189,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"thoughtcatalog_call_to_action":"Brighten someone\u2019s daily mail shuffle today by finding your next card at <strong><a href=\"http:\/\/www.papyrusonline.com\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Papyrus<\/a><\/strong>.","tc_post_redirect":"","thoughtcatalog_is_sponsored_content":"1","footnotes":""},"categories":[603229949,158018],"tags":[],"anchortext":[],"posttemplate":[603196126],"adcampaign":[603229869],"coauthors":[603207617],"class_list":["post-1114188","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-mental-health","category-sponsored","adcampaign-remove-vide-player","is-sponsored-content"],"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/03\/IMG_9932.jpg","author_meta":null,"photo_credit":null,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1114188","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/161774534"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1114188"}],"version-history":[{"count":9,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1114188\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1130527,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1114188\/revisions\/1130527"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1114189"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1114188"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1114188"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1114188"},{"taxonomy":"anchortext","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/anchortext?post=1114188"},{"taxonomy":"posttemplate","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posttemplate?post=1114188"},{"taxonomy":"adcampaign","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/adcampaign?post=1114188"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thoughtcatalog.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=1114188"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}