Most people feel sad during their lifetime but depression is more than an intense feeling of sadness. It is a medical condition that is usually treated with medication and therapy.
The holistic approach focuses on body and mind at the same time. Changing bad behaviors into good behaviors allow the body and the mind to create new routines and a new lifestyle that will allow individuals to live healthier and happier lives.
Combining a healthy diet with exercise, therapy and daily activities can improve the symptoms of depression and can help people to feel more confident and happier.
Healthy Diet
Having a healthy diet is great for both your mind and your body. Unhealthy food boost the energy levels for a little while but it does not offer the nutrients our bodies need to function in a proper way.
- What to eat
A whole foods diet is great for people who suffer from depression. Eating whole grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, and lean meats will keep the blood sugar levels stable during the day. Having stable blood sugar levels will keep your mind calm and without mood swings caused by hunger you will feel good the entire day. A stable mind throughout the day is very important if you are depressed.
- What not to eat
Processed foods are high in added sugars and they are not only completely unhealthy, they also cause the blood sugar levels to go up and down during the day, causing unnecessary stress and having a negative effect on your energy levels.
Alcohol can make depression worse so it is better to avoid it. Some say caffeine also has a negative effect when people suffer from depression but this depends on each individual. Some people experience more stress if they don’t drink coffee than when they do. Try not to drink too much coffee if you suffer from depression, but keep that one coffee per day if it makes you feel good.
Exercise
Exercising has multiple benefits when it comes to health issues and weight issues but it also helps reduce stress and to increase energy levels. The empowerment feeling you can experience after exercising also gives you a sense of control over your own life that many people who suffer from depression need.
Routine and Goals
Setting a daily schedule might help you feel in control of your life and this is particularly important when you are suffering with depression. If you feel like you cannot accomplish anything, establishing daily goals can help you to overcome the dark times.
Don’t force yourself! Start with small goals and when you feel a little bit better add more goals.
Use Logic To Fight Against Negative Thoughts
You can challenge yourself to fight against all the negative thoughts that cross your mind. Using logic and arguments to banish the negative thoughts from you mind might take some practice but it is the best way to regain control over your mind and to fill it with positive and logical thoughts that will allow you to overcome depression and accomplish what you want in life.