subject: Depression and Blues Natural Remedies [print this page] Depression and Blues Natural Remedies Depression and Blues Natural Remedies
The natural health researchers at Institute for Vibrant Living have investigated mood-enhancing natural remedies available for bad moods, the blues, etc. Here is their report:
The blues - we've all had them - moments when life doesn't turn out quite the way we expected or things just aren't going our way.
So, do you have the right to sing or play the blues?
Well, YES, but only if:
You shot a man in Memphis or your baby can't be satisfied.
But, the answer is definitely NO if:
You woke up this morning, you paid the rent or your baby still loves you.
All kidding aside, take heart the "blues" are just a common (and usually temporary) occurrence, and with a little effort they can be cured.
Here are some natural and healthy ways to lift your spirits when the doldrums want to set your worldinto a tail-spin:
Volunteer - There's nothing like helping others to induce gratitude and lift the spirits! In the words of B. B. King, there are ten rules for getting rid of the blues: "Go out and do something for someone else (and) repeat it nine times."
Have a Laugh - As the old saying goes, "Laughter is the best medicine!"It is - because it actually triggers the release of endorphins which are natural chemicals in the brain that promote an overall sense of well-being. Tip- Watch a good chuckle-producing comedy or surround yourself with amusing friends or family members.
Get Physical - To combat the blues, try some good old-fashioned exercise.In addition to increasing sexual arousal, physical activity enhances the appearance, and when we look better, we feel better.
Eat Healthy - Consuming good, nutritious food enhances the body and the mind. Eat plenty of seasonal, organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains, good fats and lean meats. In addition, just seeking out a local farmers market or fruit and veggie stand can help to clear the mind of negative thoughts.
Good Mood Foods - Eat foods high in B12 and folate to enhancea feeling of well-being. These foods are as follows:
Meats
Liver (best source)
Chicken giblets
kidney
egg yolk
Legumes
dried beans
lentils
nuts
soya products
almonds
spilt peas
Starches
wholegrain breads
wheat flour
potato
sweet potato
Fruit and Vegetables
spinach
beetroot
brussel sprouts
peaches
broccoli
cabbage
asparagus
banana
oranges
Quiet the Mind - Look into meditation, yoga, or tai chi which can improve physical and psychological health, or relax with soft instrumental music or a guided imagery CD. A little tranquility each day can soothe arestless soul.
St. John's Wort - This is a common meadow plant that has been used for medicinal purposes in some countries of the world for thousands of years. It's widely available as a mood supplement with no prescription necessary. Some scientific research suggests that St. John's Wort may be effective in the treatment of mild to moderate depression.
Be Grateful - Appreciate what you have and the people that love you. Having a spirit of gratitude will attract positive changes and promote optimism!
Confront your Fears - Call that attractive person you've been ogling for a date, join toastmasters, take an elevator to the top of a high-rise building, or ask for a raise (be sure the boss is in a good mood). Facing fears induces empowerment, and empowerment lifts the spirits.
Give Yourself Permission to Dream - Take the time to fantasize about all the things you'd like to have - a beautiful home, a new career, the love of your life! Be thorough with your visualization, down to the smallest detail and think positively!
Love Yourself,Just a Little- Choose something about yourself that you know is worthy - your smile, compassion for other people or love of animals are examples. Any time you begin to feel a little down, concentrate on and appreciate one of these things until you begin to feel a little better.
Listen to a Good Blues Record or CD- Play something from B.B. King or a great female blues artist like Candye Kane. When you listen to "how bad" they have it, your situation will begin to look better and better!
Besides these helpful tips, a new upbeat routine you should consider is to start taking a daily energy-boosting tonic, such as All Day Energy Greens from Institute for Vibrant Living. It easily mixes with 6-8 oz of liquid and adds 38 natural green energizers and mood-boosting enhancers to your daily diet - while providing your body with the nutritional daily equivalent of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables! To learn more, go to IVLProducts.com and use search term: All Day Energy Greens.
We all know that life can get stressful and seemingly overwhelming every day, which can induce those melancholy blues.
Next timethat happens, remember to give these natural and healthy blues-fighting tips a try.There's bound to be something herethat can help you to do a little sidestep around negative energyand bring on the joy you deserve!