For the past several months Tutorial Tuesdays have been a great way for me to get quality information out on social media regarding training. This past Tuesday I shifted my focus and instead discussed daily lifestyle tips I use to help combat my own depression. This post was by far the most well received of all my “tutorials” so I felt it would be beneficial to share on my blog as well. In addition to my own daily habits, Facebook followers were generous enough to share some of the habits that have helped them with their own depression. Hope this helps!
1. Make sleep a priority.
When I get 7-8 hrs of sleep a night I am unshakeable!
2. Drink plenty of water.
Drinking ample amounts of water helps keep my mind clear, keeps me away from snacking on sugar, and helps to regulate my hunger.
3. Eat foods that make you feel good.
In the past I was completely unaware of how foods made me feel after eating them. Once I developed this awareness it was far easier to keep my nutrition balanced. Being clear headed, having stable energy and being as happy as possible are all very important to me in my day to day and I found that making good food choices have helped me greatly!
4. Move your body in some way EVERYDAY!
Whether that is walking, dancing, foam rolling, or strength training MOVEMENT IS MEDICINE! Wake up early and get something in before work. Get up and stretch or move around when you can at work, even if its just to the water cooler. When writing I take little handstand breaks or do some little yoga flows to get my mind right.The choices are endless you just have to make the time for it!
5. Get outside!
Whether its a lunch break walk, hill sprints, or just eating dinner outside… make it happen.
6. Schedule some alone time even if it’s just 5-10 minutes.
This could mean meditation in the morning before starting your day. Or a quickie yoga flow before work. Find your breath and tap into it. Don’t check your phone first thing in the morning or just before bed. Set technology aside and just be!
7. Spend time with animals.
As someones who suffers from clinical depression getting a dog has done wonders for me! At first it was a bit stressful because I was responsible for someone other than myself. Tater has taught me so many things and helped me realize all the little things that are truly important.
8. Ditch the negativity + surround yourself with positive people.
Life comes with ups and downs that are out of your control BUT you can choose who you spend your time with. YOU ARE SPECIAL AND YOUR TIME IS VALUABLE… SHARE IT WITH THOSE WHO TRULY APPRECIATE IT!
9. Get some essential oils!
Whether you use a diffuser at home or the office this sensory experience can uplift your mood quickly. Combine them with a hot bath and you’re golden.
10. Schedule a monthly massage.
For the most part this entire list is completely available to you FREE OF COST! Instead of getting my nails done or sometimes even my hair cut I will make bodywork a monthly treat. When I feel good in my body, my mind usually comes along for the ride!
Hopefully one of these tips can help you or someone you know suffering from depression. Depression affects more people than you think and there are so many ways to help yourself and those you love!
