How to get out of a depression rut
Posted on February 07, 2018 by Iman Alhabib, One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.
In this article I share five tips to kick depression to the curb and bounce back on your feet!
1. Do the opposite of what your mind tells you to
When you are depressed, your mind is your enemy. What your mind tells you to do, will most often be detrimental to your state. Your mind will say things like:
‘’I don’t feel like doing anything today’’
‘’I just want to be alone’’
‘’ I don’t feel like spending time with my friends today’’
Listening to your mind will only extend the period of depression and make it harder for you to get out as time keeps passing. Instead, do the opposite of what your mind tells you to do. Force yourself to spend time with loved ones, do stuff that you normally enjoy, and/or take a walk. Whatever you do, do not remain still.
2. Clean your gut
Our gut flora affects in many profound ways. Many mood disorders such as ADHD, anxiety and depression can be easily adjusted by adjusting your gut flora.
Here are some ways to improve the state of your gut flora:
· Eat a wide array of plant foods
· Increase your fiber intake
· Eat probiotic foods such as fermented foods and yoghurt as they feed the healthy bacteria in your gut
· Eat prebiotic foods such as bananas and asparagus as they feed probiotic foods
· Avoid wheat and processed foods as they feed the bad bacteria in your gut
· Detox
3. Surround yourself with positive people
Everything is energy. When we surround ourselves with positive people, not only do we get out of our head but we also feel their high positive energy which feeds us.
It is not news that we humans are social creatures. More and more research is showing the benefits of social interaction. So not only will you be lowering your depression, you will also decrease inflammation, lower chances of dementia, and much more!
4. Get moving
You can’t achieve good health with a good diet alone. Exercise is also crucial. Research has shown that the effects of exercise are more powerful than antidepressants and its effects also last longer.
5. Have a set routine
Depression can wreak havoc in even the most basic things in your life such as sleep and diet. Create a healthy daily routine and stick to it.
Even the most basic self-care acts can feel very difficult to a depressed individual. So, start small and adjust your routine with time.
