Ekta Saxena
Seven useful tips to dodge that constant feeling of low that has surfaced specially during the pandemic.
Try to sit in silence away from distractions. Focus on your breath. Several thoughts may cross your mind. Let them be. Just observe them as if you are observing clouds around you. For me, it just drives home the point that I am someone apart from all I am for people around me. A mother, a wife, or a professional. I have to reconnect with myself as a human being that differs from the roles that I play in my life.
I know I have talked a lot about re-discovering and following dreams. However, I just want to emphasize that it is highly important to remember what your purpose in life is. We have only one life. A life that has both responsibilities and achievements. Balancing the two holds the key to a fulfilling life. Find what you really love to do. Make it your purpose. This might not be easy if it had been a long time that you have thought about this direction. But it will come with practice.
We all who have been or are parents have programmed ourselves to take care of the kids. "Have lots of fruits". "Take lots of fluids". Stop and check. Are we focussing on our own well-being? Are we following what we are preaching to our kids? After some point in our life, we become our own coaches. The most important relationship in our lives is the relationship with ourselves. Have nutritious meals. Be forgiving of your mistakes.Take responsibility for your well-being and be proud of doing it.
I know this sounds out of place, but it is not. Addiction to smartphones only aggravates issues such as depression. Ever since the apps and smartphones have brought loved ones close to each other, they have made us addicted to their usage. Addiction to smartphones and apps badly affects our productivity. It also reduces human connect that is vital for your mood. Limit the usage of apps and phones to be more in control of your emotions.
People who are always ready to judge us surround us. Be forgiving to yourself. In fact, take a step further. Love yourself as dearly as your most loved one. Pamper yourself. Look at yourself in the mirror with love and compassion. Try a new hairstyle. Put on a new shade of lipstick (for women). Hit the gym. I know it sounds crazy, but it really helps.
This is a well-known method to get over the blues. Indulging in physical activity that you relish makes your brain secrete feel-good hormones. It is a known recipe to boost your mood. Research has shown that a run for 15 mins a day of a brisk walk of one hour significantly cuts down the risk of depression. So put on your dancing shoes and just enjoy life.
A monotonous routine takes a toll on your physical and mental health. A change of place helps your brain to think differently and look at the grudging problems innovatively. Ensure to take short frequent breaks and breathe fresh.
