The Formula for Preventing Depression

While it is arguable that depression is not always preventable, there are many cases, when using the following ideas, will keep you in good spirits - most of the time. Unfortunately, we cannot be happy all of the time, but there is something we can do about it.

Working with a variety of clients over the years, I have seen how Yoga and exercise changed, and continue to change, them for the better. It is a well-known fact that endorphins are produced from a variety of exercise routines, including gentle Hatha Yoga.

Endorphins reduce stress and enhance good moods. Just that information alone is enough to start an exercise program, but weight control, muscle-tone, circulation, flexibility and a variety of other health benefits, should be an incentive to start a mild exercise program.

If you have been inactive, I suggest a beginner Yoga class with a very mild-mannered Yoga teacher. Without pushing this any further, let's look at other options to start, and things to avoid.

Participate in social activities, support groups, senior centers, or local church activities. The activities could be in your local mosque, temple, or shrine, as well. There is always an activity that you can find around any religious center.

You could also join a league for golf, tennis, fishing, bowling, bocce, or any other activity where people gather to share a few laughs. Take competition in stride, and don't take anything too serious.

Many social groups also function as support groups. The collective activity is good for all involved. Stay away from "alcohol drinking" clubs. This is not just bars, or nightclubs, but local clubs, who organize for the common good, and then, routinely get together to drink.

There is a conflict here, in that alcohol is a depressant, and if you are prone to depression, this is not a good combination. On top of that, there are plenty of health problems that accompany alcohol abuse.

Substance abuse is not a solution to depression, and you won't find a purpose in life through it. So, let's keep it simple and stay away from drinking alcohol - altogether.

If your friends and family abuse alcohol, they need counseling, and you will have to look outside your normal circles to get guidance. You need to surround yourself with positive and energetic people.

Also, don't hang around your house too much, especially in dark or unlit areas. Get outside, take a walk, go shopping, get a little sunlight, and if you are in the house all day, open the curtains during daylight hours. If you have a sunroom to relax in - that's good, too. Lack of sunlight can cause elevated levels of melatonin, which is sometimes called the "sleep hormone."

Lastly, visit the self-improvement section of your local bookstore. It is a hidden treasure within itself. This is a great reason to leave the house.

Audio books are also good for traveling in your car or listening to in your sunroom. Pick out books that really captivate your imagination. If your local bookstore has CD's, you may want to pick up some relaxing music for your ride home.

Paul Jerard, is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? - for Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher. http://www.yoga-teacher-training.org

In The News:


pen paper and inkwell


cat break through


Cure Against Depression and Low Self Confidence

Depression strikes most of us and it can make us... Read More

Insurance Reimbursement for Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Depression

I attended the Vagus Nerve Stimulation Therapy Conference at the... Read More

Depression Mantra

Depression is the most prevalent of all the emotional disorders.... Read More

Is it ADHD or is it Depression?

During the assessment process it is of great importance for... Read More

Antidepressants 101- What You Absolutely Need to Know

IntroductionChange in social and economical states throughout the world although... Read More

Can You Overcome Depression?

There are many things that happen within the body when... Read More

FDA Approves Vagus Nerve Stimulation as a Treatment for Depression

On July 15th, 2005, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration(FDA)... Read More

Omega 3 EPA: Natures Very Own Anti-depressant

Since Dr Malcolm Peet, a consultant psychiatrist at Sheffield swallow... Read More

5 Super Effective Tips To Kill Depression

Being lonely is a normal part of our everyday lives.... Read More

Seven Ways To Deal With Your Depression

It has just been announced, after a study by a... Read More

Psychiatrist Begin Training About Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Depression

The manufacturer of the vagus nerve stimulator has begun face-to... Read More

Major Symposium About Vagus Nerve Stimulation & Depression at the American Psychiatric Association

A major symposium about vagus nerve stimulation as a treatment... Read More

Natural Remedies For Depression

It is true that forms of depression cannot be avoided,... Read More

Major Depression and Manic Depression ? Any Difference?

Countless number of patients and their family members have asked... Read More

Wellbutrin For Depression: When Its More Than Just The Blues

We all have blue days:We're missing someone we've lost, the... Read More

Chronic Depression: Disease or Charcter Flaw?

A major survey on depression symptoms from the National Mental... Read More

Seven Steps to Good Mental Health

Psychological well-being is something that we all have a right... Read More

Aspartame and Your Mental Health

In 1965, a chemist working to develop an ulcer drug... Read More

Raise Your Feeling Frequency with a Loving Smile

In every moment of our life we have the choice... Read More

Depression in Teenagers: Now What Can We Do?

No doubt you have seen the recent news headlines about... Read More

Depression is Underdiagnosed in College Students

Everyone feels down or blue once in awhile. Especially during... Read More

I Love You, I Hate You But Dont Go: Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder

It amazes me that 6-10 million Americans have been diagnosed... Read More

Reclaiming Your Life From Anxiety Symptoms

Only somebody who has lived with anxiety ? as either... Read More

5 Way Tips To Manage Depression

Being lonely is a normal share of our everyday lives.... Read More

Depression - Causes and Treatments

Depression has long been considered a character flaw indicative of... Read More

How to Overcome Anxiety and Take Repossession of Your Life!

Katie came as close as is possible to having it... Read More

New Treatment for Chronic Depression

Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Chronic Treatment-Resistant Depression About Vagus Nerve... Read More

How Do You Know if You Have Manic-Depression

Nancy was doing very well until about two years ago... Read More

To Long Term Care Professionals: How to Dramatically Improve your Residents Psychiatric Care

Long term care facilities and residents' doctors should consider combining... Read More

Beating Stress, Anxiety and Depression

Why are these illnesses on the rise? And why do... Read More

Biological Psychiatry Confirms of Efficacy and Safety of VNS Therapy for Depression

The September 1, 2005 issue of Biological Psychiatry confirmed the... Read More

When Your Mind Develops A Mind Of Its Own

We've all been there? One minute your listening intently as... Read More

Being A Victim Is Always A Choice

Do you blame your past, your family, your partner, your... Read More