A SKIPTON writer and illustrator is urging people to become part of the ‘journalling community’ and help improve the way they feel about themselves.

Lindsay Tempest, an art tutor with qualifications in mental health, says keeping a journal can have positive benefits to people’s wellbeing.

Her book ‘My Wellbeing Art Journal’ is full of soothing and inspiring words and is designed so people can add their own words and pictures.

“The journal is interspersed with words and ideas which aim to soothe, inspire, and work as a wellbeing tool. It is not in a template format, every page has been carefully designed for people to both write and draw in,” she says.

Lindsay says she is passionate about mental health issues, and adds there is evidence to suggest keeping a journal provides many benefits.

“The act of writing accesses your left brain, which is analytical and rational. While your left brain is occupied, your right brain is free to create, intuit and feel. Journaling can help to clarify your thoughts and feelings, to get to know yourself better, and to reduce stress.,” she says.

“It can also help you solve problems more effectively, and to resolve disagreements with others.

“In addition to all of these wonderful benefits, keeping a journal allows you to track patterns, trends and improvement and growth over time.”

My Wellbeing Art Journal, priced £9.99, is available now at Craven Stationery, Coach Street, Skipton; Salts Mill, Saltaire, and Pioneer Projects, Bentham.

It is also available on Amazon.