cspp04

The winter can be a difficult time for many of us financially and emotionally. For people like myself, who suffer from depression, it can be the hardest season of all. I do what I can to get out into the sunlight, to limit the junk food and caffeine, take my medication, and talk. With all that I do, however, I recently found myself going through a relapse, of sorts. So, I started reading about ways to help myself re-focus and basically just cheer myself up. It occured to me that many of us, even those who are not clinically depressed, go through some form of depression and that we all find ourselves looking for ways to cheer ourselves up. The following is some of the tips and information I have gleaned from my reading.

Self-love makes it possible to love others. If we don't love ourselves, our insecurities and moods will affect those around us. Taking the time to connect with ourselves, to relax, and do things that make us happy is our first priority. If we don't take care of ourselves, how can we hope to take care of others?

According to an article written by Deborah Ward, we can do a few things on our own that will help us learn more about ourselves and develop our self-confidence:
1. Do something you love, such as watching a foreign film, taking a class, or learning a new language.
2. Explore your creative side by making cards to send to the people you care about the most.
3. Volunteer--giving to others is one of the best ways to fill your own heart. Spend some time with those who are less fortunate--bring flowers to your local seniors' home, or give blood.
4. Adopt a pet. Animals are experts at unconditional love.

Looking after our physical, spiritual, and emotional selves is not easy. But there are some places we can begin. The following is a list of ways to help heal yourself and improve your overall mood:
Excercise, sleep, eat well, drink enough water, get out into the sun light, take vitamin supplements, yoga, acupuncture, breathing techniques, prayer, meditation, practice forgiveness, spend time in nature, set attainable goals, relax, listen to music, watch a comedy, create a flexible routine at home and work, talk to family/friends/minister/therapist, join a support group, volunteer, get a pet, practice daily affirmations, think like an optimist, forgive yourself.

I hope these tips help. For me, I am reminded once again that I am not alone.