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In a world of negativity and uncertainty, being in a state of dissatisfaction or depression is quite warranted. Life is full of stressful, uncomfortable, and disappointing situations and the feeling of hopelessness is our body’s natural reaction to these predicaments. However, depression is also linked to unattractiveness and weariness which, in turn, can affect our daily lives, putting ourselves and others in harm’s way. While depression and grief are never easy to overcome, here are 4 lifestyle modifications to consider throughout the day that can at least aid in delaying such feelings and thoughts:
Say “Good Morning” When You Wake Up: For many people (ourselves included), waking up in the morning is an arduous task in and of itself. This is because our minds are cluttered and inundated thinking about yesterday’s thoughts and events and the events that will unfold in the new day. Telling ourselves “Good Morning” and reminding ourselves that its a new day “disconnects” our mind and body from the stress of the previous day. Ways to remind ourselves range from a morning ritual such as taking 10 deep breaths to simply saying a catchphrase to ourselves such as the aforementioned “Good Morning”. Doing so will clear the “clutter” in our minds and remind us that the past cannot be changed so look into the future.
Smile More Often: According to psychologist Seth Gullitan PHD, smiling “releases endorphins throughout the facial muscles and bloodstream and puts us in a more positive mood”. As you read this article, force your face into a smile and hold it for a few seconds. The endorphins will pump throughout your body like adrenaline, releasing these endorphins as well. Also, remember that it takes fewer facial muscles to smile than to frown 😀
Feel Water: Whether showering or washing dishes, we expose ourselves to water almost every day but take the feeling of water for granted. “Water is a part of nature that brings our body into the moment with awareness, respect, and practice”, says Gullitan. Therefore, the next time you are around water, ask yourself how it physically feels and how your body meditates towards these sensations.
Think About Success, Not Failure: “Naturally, our body recalls moments of depression and losses more vividly than success and wins”, says Gullitan. Therefore, rather than asking ourselves “What went wrong today?”, we should be asking ourselves the opposite: ” What went well?” or even “What can I improve on to make it even better?”. It may further help to write these accomplishments in a journal to become self-aware of your potential (yes, even you have potential!), build confidence, and above all, combat depression.
These 4 fundamental life changes can go a long way if practiced in repetition and grace. They help relax our body and release endorphins of positivity and euphoria. Life isn’t all difficult and it’s not worth cluttering our brains with difficult thoughts so let’s consider these changes and bring depression to an end now and in the future.
