Thursday,
December 1, 2011
Today's
Gift
Noble deeds and hot baths are the best
cures for depression. --Dodie Smith
When we change our lives, we give up old patterns.
Some of these old patterns, as harmful as they may have been, were like our best
friends. We could turn to them for comfort and escape. After giving them up, and
after the first elated feelings of liberation, we may also have to deal with
depression and grief of loss.
What should we remember at these times?
First of all, depression has a beginning, and it
has an end. In the midst of it, we may feel that nothing will ever look good
again. That is not so. The loss of energy, the dark mood, the hopelessness – all
will pass and we will regain our vitality and joy of life.
Second, it helps to stay active. Physical activity
is one of the best medicines for a depressed mood: vigorous walks, physical
labor, or a good workout at the gym. Another kind of activity is helping others,
reaching out to those in need of companionship and a helping hand. It is
surprising how good it feels to make a difference in another person’s life.
The third thing we can do is stop our negative
thoughts. We can simply interrupt a train of thought in the same way we might
interrupt a conversation and change the subject. Finally, we can take comfort in
the faith that our Higher Power will provide what we need in the long
run.
Today I will take good care of my mental
well-being.
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