There are hundreds of small and easy things we can do everyday to keep ourselves away from depression, these actions won’t occupy much time, but altogether they make a big difference for our well-being. Here I’d like to share 3 examples.
1. Name your feelings. Simply put your negative emotions in words, make yourself aware of it, tell yourself what emotions are bothering you, such as hopeless, helpless, frustrated, worried, anxious, etc. Although your brain is responsible for making you feel that way, luckily your brain also helps to calm you down by simply starting to notice the feelings. You can write down the feelings, or share with someone you trust, let it out.
2. Before you go to bed, think of 3 things (or at least 1) that you had done well that day, don’t just say no you have not done anything good. Ask yourself questions, for example, have you given compliment or appreciation to others? Have you helped anyone? Have you forgiven anyone? Have you received any compliments? etc. There are so many small things in daily life that makes us feel good about ourselves, but we often forget or haven’t noticed. Bit by bit, the more good points you notice for yourself, the better you feel.
3. Get a long hug with someone close. Believe it or not, when we hug, a kind of neurotransmitter (oxytocin) is released, that makes us feel good. Try it out, do it everyday, notice the gradual amazing changes in you, and your relationship with the one you hug.
Don’t know where to start? Make a small step by reaching out to a professional.
https://rebalance.asia
References:
Korb, Alex, and Daniel J Siegel. The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time. Oakland: New Harbinger Publications, 2015. Print.
#well-being #depression #things-to-do #hug #appreciation
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