A MARRIED couple, who have spent years battling with depression, have a new leash a life after taking part in a positive-thinking workshop.

Laura and Gemma Ellison, from Latchford, were determined to close the negative chapters in their lives so signed up to Be Your Own Kind Of Beautiful – a series of workshops which aim to empower, enlighten and heal peoples’ minds.

The couple, who were married in April, can’t believe the difference it has made to both their lives.

Gemma said: “I have suffered with mental health disabilities all my life but it has helped me to move forward. I do not live in the past anymore which was a big part of the problem.”

The 21-year-old continued: “I do not feel as depressed as I have learnt that it does not matter what everyone else thinks.”

Be Your Own Kind Of Beautiful was established by Clair Anderson, from Woolston, who has been teaching about the power of positive thinking for five years.

Clair, who is now working with Home-Start Warrington, said: “If you focus on the negative then you won’t be able to see the positive. It’s simply about shifting your perspective.”

The workshops aim to empower and inspire people suffering from anxiety, depression, phobias and low-self esteem and, most importantly, it encourages people to live in the moment rather than in the past.

Clair said: “I have had my fair share of bad stuff happen to me and you can’t magic it away.

“It’s simply about having a positive attitude which, I know is easier said than done, but positive-thinking classes have changed the lives of so many people.”

The couple were both amazed at how the mental health problems, which had dictated their lives for so long, began to evaporate.

Gemma said: “I was cynical before and I was reluctant to sign up but I’m glad that I did. My entire outlook has changed.”

For more information visit beyourownkindofbeautiful.co.uk.