Program Your Happy

As someone who has fought depression from early adolescence, I know a lot about pain and mental anguish. I also know that, like anything, depression is a choice. Although depression is an extremely difficult thing to step out of once you find yourself firmly there, there are many things you can do to turn yourself around.

Be Happy Techniques:

1. Pay attention to what you eat! Food is fuel, and there is a great deal of truth in the saying, "Garbage in, garbage out." Although you might get instantaneous pleasure from eating candy or chips, junk food will bring on a crash after that initial sugar rush. Make sure you are getting a good balance of fruits, veggies, protein, and fiber to balance out your moods. It can also be helpful to take a good quality multivitamin supplement to fill in gaps our normal diets do not fill. (Note this is not meant to be medical advice. Always talk to your healthcare provider when changing your healthcare regimen!)
2. Exercise! Practice yoga. Go walking. Go for a swim. Work in your garden. Clean your house. Ride a bike. Anything that gets you active and uses your muscles will help. That said, it is even better if you can find something that gives you some cardio benefits. This is because working out has the potential to increase your body's production of those feel-good endorphins. It can also help you sleep better by making your body physically tired. (Again, talk to your healthcare provider before making big changes in your daily regimen.)
3. Being thankful! Take the time to sit down and make a list of the good things in your life. It could be something as simple as sunshine in a clear blue sky or more complex like spending time in your favorite hobby. Write down as many things as you can think of, then spend time daily going over the list and imagining each one. When you spend time dwelling on the good things in your life, you can't help but improve your mood.
4. Ask for help! Pray. Meditate. Ask Source what you can do to becoming happier. Petition your angels for divine assistance. Ask family members, friends and coworkers to help you stay active and on task. You might start by saying something like, "I have been feeling a little down lately. Would you be willing to help me stay active and not let me be alone/get off task/etc.?" Most people really want to help, but they might not be aware that you are having problems with depression. We all go through times of sadness. It is not a weakness. It is all part of being human!

 You can do things to increase your own happiness! Take an active part in caring for yourself. After all, you are worth it!!!

~CSE