How to Relieve Depression Naturally

There are natural ways to relieve depression and believe it or not, in the majority of cases, they are just as effective as a pharmaceutical approach.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. If you struggle with depression or merely feel "down" or "blue," don't believe you are stuck with these feelings or have to resort to medications, which often create unpleasant side effects and actually add to feelings of depression.
2. The natural approach has effectively eliminated symptoms of depression for ages. One merely has to learn to use it properly. The beauty part is that it's available to everyone and only requires one's willingness to participate.
3. The key is to begin boosting serotonin levels naturally. Sometimes the weather, time of year, stress, excessive worry or tension will lower serotonin levels. It doesn't matter what the cause, the focus is basically on boosting the levels back to normal. Here's the scoop:
   
   - EXERCISE- The times you least feel like doing it, are the times you really need to exercise. Exercise is the greatest natural reliever of depression, bar none. Moderate walking 20 minutes daily, preferably outdoors will do the trick. Exercise is the FASTEST reliever of depression as well. This is a tried and true natural method for RELIEF!
   - NUTRITION- A good carbohydrate and lean protein with every meal and snack will boost serotonin and keep blood sugar levels balanced.
   - SUNLIGHT- Mild exposure to sunlight lifts one's spirits. Even cloudy days are brighter than indoor lighting, providing a boost in spirits.
   - MUSIC- Listening to music elevates your mood and creates an overall feeling of joy.
   - REPETITIVE MOTION- Knitting, crocheting, practicing an instrument, even chewing your favorite gum creates repetitive motion which results in boosted serotonin levels. An easy fix and good results!

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid excessive amounts of sugar and sugar substitutes. Sugar lifts your spirits momentarily but drops you even quicker.
• Get dressed and go outdoors every day. Lying around only fuels the depression.
• Visit with friends and socialize when depressed, even if you don't feel enthusiastic about it. This will often break the cycle and forces thoughts outward.
• Find an interest, hobby or "cause" that takes you out of yourself. An occupied mind quickly loses the habit of depression.
• Remove "shoulds" from your thoughts. Trust your choices and release yourself from self-imposed rules. In other words, lighten up on yourself.
• Contact your physician if depression lingers longer than usual or your "blue" feelings become overwhelming or unmanageable.