Mental Well-being Top Tips: The Joy of Journalling

Many people keep a photographic record of special occasions in their lives. But what about keeping a handwritten record of lovely things which happen on the ‘ordinary’ days? A type of gratitude journal, if you like.  

 This practice brings about a positive mental state of wellbeing. So that would be one answer to the question of ‘why bother?’  

 Another answer could be ‘simply for the fun of it’... I write about time spent with a friend; a new recipe; a tasty meal and I have begun to illustrate my pages, using colourful stickers. 

 They are available in a huge range of subjects – animals; flowers; cartoon characters; alphabet letters and numbers. The list is endless. Look in bookstores, art and craft shops and even supermarkets. Recently I went to buy a pint of milk and returned with stickers - images of very handsome horses! 

 Themed stickers celebrate every season and festival - autumn, Hallow’een, Christmas, winter, Easter...Online I may, or may not, have ordered stickers from USA, China and Australia. At least the postal packages are small... 

 You may fancy the idea of journal- keeping but don't know where to start.  

 There are many factors which influence our mental wellbeing: physical health; the weather; the company we keep; nature; a sense of purpose; hobbies; relaxation rituals – from arts and crafts to Zumba.  

 There’s plenty to write about and to create, what author Sarah Ban Breathnach, calls an ‘Illustrated Journal of Discovery’.  

 Discover your own JOY. Have fun.