This time of year many people struggle with overcoming issues relating to sadness, anxiety, and depression. Whether it's the change in time, family stress, or weight gain, it can be a challenge to keep yourself in a positive frame of mind.

Suffering from depression can make you feel hopeless, frustrated...like your quality of life will never get better.

If you're struggling with seasonal or chronic depression it is easy to get discouraged about your treatment options, so I wanted to give you a few suggestions about helping treat depression, anxiety, and seasonal moodiness naturally. Everyone can use a little mood booster during this time of year, and below you'll find the best natural  ways to help get you back in a happier state of mind.

Warmly,

7 Steps to Eliminate Depression Naturally

#1 Acupuncture

It is believed that acupuncture can be just as effective as antidepressants in helping depression. Acupuncture works by focusing on different points of the body to bring the body back to its natural energy flow and balance. Acupuncture points can help stimulate the body’s production of endorphins and aid the release of serotonin and dopamine, which can improve mood balance.

#2 Omega-3s

 It is believed that omega-3 deficiency can cause mood swings and depression. Omega-3s are found in fish like salmon, tuna, and herring. They are not only good for your overall physical health but your mental health as well.

#3 Meditation and Mindfulness

Practicing meditation and mindfulness has been proven to have many benefits. Not only does it bring the heart rate down, calm the mind, and reduce stress, but it can also bring the mind to a healthier place. Mindfulness involves focusing on the present moment and not the past or future. By doing so, we let go of anxieties we feel about the future or negative thoughts we have about the past, eliminating feelings of worry.

Take a few moments during the day to de-stress yourself through breathing techniques, meditation, yoga, or qi-gong. It will help you gather your thoughts and will be greatly beneficial for both your body and mind.

#4 Get Outside

Spending time outdoors and in the sun can have great effects on your mood. Take time to go outside in nature and get some fresh air! When one doesn’t get enough sunlight, it can strongly affect how you feel and is one of the main causes of seasonal affective disorder.

Try spending even just 15 to 30 minutes outside every day whether it is walking, gardening, or just simply sitting outside.

A scheduled daily walk is a great way to get outside but will also add a semblance of balance and routine, which can make this time of year a little easier to cope with. It may be hard to be motivated and keep up a routine however, but by setting goals and habits on a daily or weekly basis you are continuing to improve upon your condition. Just stick with it!

#5 Exercise

Exercise is a great way to release needed endorphins and de-stress! Whether running, swimming, or something low-impact like yoga, it can give you a needed mood boost during a stressful period.

Try spending 30 minutes a day doing some sort of exercise. One study found that patients who worked out regularly saw a decrease in their symptoms of depression by half in 12 weeks. 

Try to set goals for exercise: if you can go on a jog just three days a week you’ll be boosting your serotonin, your mood, and your physical health. Depression is hard, but getting out of your normal environment helps you get out of your head for a bit.

#6 Take a break

Depression can often worsen when you are feeling stressed and overworked. Try to take some time off to relax! If it isn’t possible to take vacation time, try to fit in at least an hour a day of relaxation time. Whether it’s meditating, reading, or closing your eyes for a bit, take some time for deep breaths and a way to shut off from the rest of the world. This time should just be about YOU!

#7 Reach out

Don’t go through this alone! Chances are there are people in your life who love and care about you very much. Although it may seem hard to reach out or socialize, being around people can help you feel more connected. It is easy to isolate yourself when depression is consuming your mind and thoughts, but talking to friends and family can have profound benefits on beginning the process to better health.

Depression is not easy, but that doesn’t mean it can’t get better. If you feel like you needed added support to help with your moods, check out my Online Wellness Coaching Call options.