Depression is a psychological disorder which is characterized by severe despondency and dejection. It is also associated by feelings of hopelessness, inadequacy, lack of energy and interest in life.
There are a lot of ways to manage this condition, and one of them is the application of natural remedies which help to alleviate it. Here are some of them:
1. Yoga and Meditation
Yoga and meditation help to facilitate the increased supply of oxygen to the body and brain. This helps the body to relax. It also stimulates the brain to produce feel good hormones that enhances your mood and makes you feel better.
2. Laughter
Laughter works to improve your mood and it also improves your health in a lot of ways, including some relief from symptoms of depression. Make laughter a regular part of your day. It can help to send your blues away.
3. Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activities or exercise helps you to get enough oxygen supply for your body and brain, improve your mood and give you a sense of well-being. It also stimulates your brain to release feel good hormones which work effectively to relieve anxiety. Exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes per day can help to keep you physically and mentally healthy.
4. Green Tea
A study conducted by Dr. Kaijun Niu of Tohoku University Graduate School in Sendai found that drinking three to four cups of green tea everyday decreases symptoms of depression. Green tea contains amino acids which help to promote relaxation.
5. Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is known to have a positive influence on our physical and mental health. It has the ability to enhance our mood, ease our tense muscles, and make us feel relaxed in mind and body. The pampering effects of aromatherapy can help to relieve stress and anxiety.
6. Vitamin B and Folate
B vitamins such as vitamin B6, B12 and folate or vitamin B9 play a great role in the body’s ability to metabolize tryptohan to serotonin. Low serotonin levels are associated with depressive symptoms. Eating foods rich in B vitamins can help you to fight depression. Natural food sources of B vitamins and folate include beans legumes, poultry, shell fish, whole grains and citrus fruits.
7. Vitamin D, Calcium, Iron and Zinc
Consuming foods rich in vitamin D, calcium, iron and zinc help to relieve symptoms of depression. You can avail of this vitamin and minerals from food sources such as fish, leafy greens, almonds, meat products and fortified cereals.
8. Fish oils
Fish oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are called brain foods. According to a 2002 study that was featured in the General Archives of General Psychiatry, people who consumed one gram of fish oil per day decreased their depression related symptoms by 50 percent. Natural food sources of omega-3 include walnuts, tuna, salmon, cod, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
9. Sunlight
Sunlight is a natural provider of vitamin D which vital in reducing symptoms of depression. Make it a habit to go out to get some early morning sun and exercise three to four times each week. This can help to make you physically and mentally strong and flexible.
These are some of the best natural remedies for depression. Make them a regular part of your life and discover that it’s not impossible to obtain health, happiness and well being in one package.
