You may think resulting to taking anti-depressant could be the only way out when overpowered by depression and other mood disorders. Nay! There abound some mood enhancers that yield similar or better results than those traditionally prescribed drugs.
Whether you are in the office, at home or in the car; stress level increases and can get you tired and make you feel low about life.
It’s obvious, your doctor could help turn your mood around with the use of anti-anxiety and depression medications. But, your diets, behaviors and more of the natural mood enhancers to be discussed below could help uplift your spirit and present to you an improved mood.
Take more Chocolate
Even the smell of it makes one happy. Chocolate contains Tryptophan which may boost the brain’s production of serotonin, a natural antidepressant, says researchers at the University of Arizona College of Medicine.
“Eating chocolate really is a mood elevator for some people,” says Mary F. Morrison, M.D., assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Pennsylvania.
Evoking Smell
Research say some odors, especially the pleasant ones can trigger memories of good old days
Find out what smell works for you. According to Alan Hirsch, M.D., assistant professor of neurology and psychiatry at Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center in Chicago “they’ll lower your stress level and improve your mood,”
Show interest in Arts
You can start writing in a journal, drawing or creating artwork that express your feelings at the moment.
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s wort is a plant cultivated and used as a natural dietary supplement for the treatment of symptoms of mental health problems. Such as depression and sleep problems.
Gratitude
Be grateful! Pay attention on what you have not only what you needed, you can do this by putting down just 3 things that made you happy for the day; do this daily.
Vitamin D.
Vitamin D is a very essential micronutrient, its deficiency has connection with depression. You can devote just 20 minutes daily to be exposed to sunlight.
“Spending time outdoors is ideal, but just living in a bright home with a lot of sunlight streaming in can make a dramatic difference,” says Norman E. Rosenthal, M.D., a clinical professor of psychiatry.
Repaint your room
Less Alcohol
Several research says Alcohol is associated with mood disorders.
Listen to Music
A study said, listening to music reduces the level of hormone responsible for stress by 41 percent. Listen to something melodious.
“Listening to music has a powerful effect on people’s moods,” says Neal Barnard, M.D.
Massage
Touch, especially from a loved one gives lower heart rates and blood pressure and higher levels of oxytocin which reduces stress and anxiety. In addition, touch makes changes in brain-wave activity, and improves your outlook as it makes you feel more optimistic.
Be carefull with St. John’s wort if you are on anti-depression meds, like prozac, this cannot be taken together!!
Thanks for the info