08/26/2022
Depression and anxiety can be tough, especially when you don't know how to end it (or stop it from re-appearing so frequently). While there is no magic bullet that gets rid of both instantly and forever, there are ways to drastically reduce them, and make those more-positive emotions and feelings be the ones in the driver's seat. If anyone is or has experienced either, take a deep breath... It can and will get better. The clouds can clear... and there is a sunnier side just over the horizon.
To start, just for a moment, breathe in slowly (counting to 4), then hold for 4 seconds, then breathe out for 8 seconds, then hold again for 4 seconds. Do this again 2 more times. Now smile. Even just a little smile. Now that I see those pearly-whites (or at least your lips curled up in just the slightest smile), now remember and imagine a moment of time when you felt happy- really really happy. 'Could be about a big thing (your child was born, you got that job or promotion, that cool thing you built or trip you went on...), OR it could be a simple moment (like you remembering hugging your child, or petting your doggy or kitty cat, or taking a walk that one day when you saw a pretty bird... Whatever it is... see that memory again, and relive it for a moment. Yeah, stay in that moment for just a little bit longer... 'Doesn't that feel nice? This "Happy Memory Break" is something I do often, to break up the day, and interrupt negative feelings. Try it again later on, and see how that feels.
Enjoy! 🙂
🤗