Mood swings are a part of everyone’s life. There are those low phases in which we feel “depressed” and gloomy. This feeling generally passes away in a little while. However, a person suffering from clinical depression stays trapped in these low phases, so much that it starts affecting their daily life.It is a chronic mental disorder in which the patient experiences feelings of sadness, despair, loneliness, low self-esteem and self reproach.
The person withdraws from social contact due to complex, low confidence and lack of excitement. Depression may also be characterized by loss of appetite and insomnia. The cause of depression is mainly negativity which changes the views of a person about himself and those surrounding him. Hence, Depression should not be taken lightly as it not only interferes with the mental state but also affects the physical state.
Moreover, if not treated on time, it may even lead to suicidal tendencies. Depression, being a psychological disorder, can be treated with simple therapies at home, positive outlook towards life, a regular exercise plan and proper diet. These are some home remedies which can be followed to work your way out of depression.
Home Remedies For Depression
Stock Up On Veggies And Fruits
It is scientifically proven that antioxidants found in vegetables and fruits help to destroy the free radicals present in the body. These free radicals contribute to ageing, damage and dysfunction which often add on to depression.
Vitamin C and vitamin E destroy the free radicals and help to prevent degeneration of the body .So fill your plate with vegetables and fruits like apricots, broccoli, carrots, pumpkins, peaches, blueberries, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, kiwis etc.
Fight It With Fish
It is interesting to see that fish and fish oil supplements (like cod liver oil) can actually help in treating depression. Research proves that those who consume fish and fish oil supplements suffer less from depression than those who don’t include them in their diet.
This is because they contain omega-3 fatty acids. Fish like salmon, sardines, tuna, anchovy etc are good sources of omega -3 which helps to cure depression. Hence, you should include fish and fish supplements in your diet to fight depression.
Calm Your Mind With Carbs
There is a direct link between carbohydrate intake and our mood. This is because carbs boost the level of serotonin in the body which is a neurotransmitter associated with behavior and moods. This is the same chemical targeted by drugs like Prozac. Therefore carbs can make you feel good.
However, it is important to make a smart choice. One must opt for healthy carbohydrates like whole grains, fruits, vegetables and legumes. It is important to note that sugar intake should be limited and replaced with complex carbohydrates. This will help to make your mind calm, cure depression and control mood swings.
Pack Protein In Your Diet
Doctors advise taking proteins two to three times a day to boost alertness, concentration and clear the mind .This is because proteins are rich an amino acid tyrosine that helps to increase the level of brain chemicals like dopamine and norepinephrine.
So eat plenty of proteins in the form of turkey, tuna, chicken, pulses, cheese, milk, soya products, yogurt etc to enliven your mind and get rid of depression.
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Amla Juice And Nutmeg Powder
A combination of gooseberry juice and nutmeg (jaiphal) works wonders for depression. Take 1tablespoon of amla juice. Avoid the prepacked available juice in the market as they contain additives which tend to dilute the nutrients of the juice. Mix this with a pinch (approximately 1/8 teaspoon )of nutmeg powder . Consume this mixture on a regular basis.
Yoga Asanas
Yoga asanas have been practiced by yogis since time immemorial. They are a way to a more balanced life and controlled mind. By controlling breathing and by performing specific postures, both the body and the mind become strong. Yoga is highly recommended for people suffering from depression.
It is medically proven that people practicing yoga asanas experience a decrease in amount of anger, anxiety and neurotic symptoms. Specific yoga postures and pranayam should be practiced to cure depression. This is because they help in secretion of certain chemicals in the body which help to cure depression. One must practice these exercises everyday for best results.
Battle Obesity
Believe it or not, obesity is directly related to depression. Many studies have proved that obese people suffer more from depression than those with a healthy weight. If you have a weight problem you must consult a dietician for guidance. So battle obesity with a proper diet and exercise and stay away from depression.
Meditate To Ensure Emotional Balance
Meditation is an ancient practice to keep the mind calm and balanced. It provides innumerable benefits by improving concentration and helping controlling the mind. Depression is caused by negativity in the mind which is a result of imbalance of emotions.
Hence meditation is useful in curing depression by removing negativity. Practicing meditation on daily basis makes ones outlook more positive due to the spiritual aspect associated with it. Then, what are you waiting for? Meditate everyday for a happier you!
Light Therapy
This is an effective remedy for seasonal depression (seasonal affective disorder) especially in the dark winter months. This therapy involves exposure to sunlight to boost serotonin level in the body. This brain chemical, which plays a major role in influencing our mood, is boosted by the vitamin D present in sunlight.
One should walk outdoors in the morning sun in the winter months for maximum benefits. However, one must use a sunscreen to protect the skin from the ultraviolet rays of the sun. So remember to soak yourself in the morning sun and smile through the gloomy winter days.
Music Therapy
Music is said to have a soothing effect on the mind, body and soul. These properties of soft , calming music make it very effective in providing short term cure to depression. This therapy should be performed in a silent, peaceful place. Simply lie down in a cool, quiet place with soft music of your choice and let the melody relax your mind. Psychiatrists claim that this therapy makes the condition of patients suffering from depression better.
Flower Power
What can be better than sweet scented, colourful flowers in making the mood better! These beautiful flowers are not only a delight to the eyes but also give peace to the mind. Keep the house clean and decorate it with fresh flowers to feel good. Aromatherapy uses the power of the natural fragrances of flowers to rejuvenate the mind.
Bathe with herbal soaps containing aromatic oils to create a spa like effect at home. You can also make your own pastes with sweet smelling flowers like rose and jasmine. Then apply these for a refreshing effect and bathe. You can also try adding rose petals to the bath tub for a blissful bath. Let the power of flowers enliven your senses.
Heal With A Massage
Massages are an effective way to release tensions and stress of the body. Take a full body massage to relax the body. Another helpful way is to massage your head with ayurvedic massage oils to ensure a sound sleep.
This helps to cure the sleep disorders associated with depression. You are sure to feel refreshed, rejuvenated and energy packed in the morning and to kick start the day. This will have a positive impact on the mind and will help to eliminate negative emotions.
