Relaxation ease depression and make yourself feel better.
Many people make the mistake of thinking that sadness and depression are one and the same.
Sadness is a natural, normal emotion that comes and goes.
Although feeling sad and cheerless is an unhappy state, it usually passes.
Depression isn’t sadness.
Depression is constant.
It can last for a period of weeks, months or even years.
Willpower alone won’t overcome depression, however, there are a number of ways that the methods of relaxation ease depression symptoms and hopeless feelings.
Connection – resist isolating yourself and talk to a trusted person like a family member, friend or therapist This can help make problems feel easier.
Exercise – the link between exercise and feeling good is well established. Exercise doesn’t have to mean joining a gym; a brisk walk has been shown to improve mood and positively affect symptoms of mild to moderate depression.
Relaxation – Anything that makes you unwind and feel good will benefit your emotional health
Again – for many of us relaxing may simply mean flopping on the sofa and maybe watching the TV, that may feel relaxing, but it doesn’t reduce the effects of stress.
These techniques can all help to relieve stress because they make you feel relaxed and hopeful.
- Deep breathing – and here’s how.
- Guided imagery – remember imagination is stronger than will.
- Yoga– Exercise and connection – maybe take a class
Find techniques that suit you, a massage or pedicure may be good for some but stressful for others.
Make a little time each day for something that you look forward to – like a bubble bath or a walk
These are useful ways to show how exercise and relaxation ease depression, of course, a therapist will help you to improve your symptoms and you should seek out a suitable therapist through UKCP.