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Easy Physical Remedies for Managing Depression

By Stepy Kamei

Depression is a condition that affects millions of people every year. Unfortunately, it's still not talked about enough, which means many people suffering from this condition also don't get the access to important information regarding treatment and management of symptoms. One of the most misunderstood aspects of depression is that it doesn't just affect the mind -- it can affect the body in physical ways, as well. Therefore, there are physical remedies that can be taken in order to manage depressive episodes. Keep on reading to learn more about the steps you can take to manage, or even prevent, the symptoms of depression from interfering with your everyday life.

Take a Deep Breath

Yes, this may sound like trite or insignificant advice, but the truth is that something as seemingly simple as your breathing patterns can have a big impact on your mental state of being. This is because anxiety and depression often go hand in hand, and the way you breathe can actually increase or decrease feelings of anxiety. Make sure you're taking slow, deep breaths, especially during times when you feel particularly emotional or upset. It can help to inhale through your nose for four counts, hold your breath for four counts, and exhale through your mouth for four counts.

Avoid Rumination

One of the worst parts about depression is the tendency to let one or two bad thoughts root into your mind, and end up ruminating over it for hours or even days after the fact. Therefore, it's important to learn how to do your best to stop a negative thought in its tracks, before it can start to ruminate in the mind. Sometimes, simply being able to talk about what's upsetting you with an understanding friend or family member can greatly help stop rumination from ever starting in the first place.

It also helps to teach yourself to become aware of when you're getting caught in a cycle of negative thinking so you can change the narrative in your head. Train yourself to recognize a negative or self-critical thought, stop it, and then replace it with a compliment or positive affirmation instead.

Write It Out

Many patients with depression find that being able to write about whatever is upsetting them can really help resolve the issues at hand. You can start by simply writing freestyle, meaning you write whatever comes into your head. Even if it doesn't make sense initially, you may find yourself eventually writing out whatever is bothering you, to the point that you experience catharsis and feel like you've gotten negative thoughts out of your head and onto the page.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Edmond, Okla.  

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