We at Soul Wisdom Therapy hold this mission foremost in our work: to help you live a more integrated, whole and authentic life—and feel more joyful, happy and peaceful. This focus means that we work with the whole person, mind, body and soul, to help clients live more fulfilling lives. We believe that a holistic approach is critical in any therapeutic setting, but is essential in treating depression.

Clinical depression is a serious condition which requires outside assistance to resolve. The suggestions in this post are intended to be utilized with treatment and/or therapy to help heal your depression.

The brain’s hormones can be triggered by everything you take into your body – food, supplements, self-care products. And often the cause is cyclical: depression can lead to poor lifestyle habits, where a poor diet and lack of movement increase the imbalance of hormones, exacerbating the depression.

Junk food is fast, easy, tasty, and addictive, full of sugars, salts and chemicals which create imbalance in the system. Nutritious foods, however, can allow the brain’s chemistry and blood sugar to even out, creating a more calm, balanced mood. In fact, whole (unprocessed) foods allow the body’s natural processes to improve mood.

Regular intake of foods high in omega-3 fatty acids (such as fish) and healthy fats like coconut oil, may also help.

Satisfying sleep is also important in mood regulation, to enable the brain to repair itself. Sleep can be improved in many ways – read our blog post with some suggestions here.

Physical movement is important to heal depression as well. Find an activity that is fun and uplifting for you, whether that is walking or running, yoga or tai chi, dance, or cardio exercise. Even 15 minutes a day can help release endorphins to elevate mood.

Visit your physician to resolve any physical causes of depression, such as adrenal or thyroid hormone imbalances. These can masquerade as many physical symptoms. It is important to rule these imbalances out as a cause.

Depression can often be triggered by worry and stress, the “what if” syndrome, which also creates hormonal imbalances. Learn and practice mindfulness to derail the fear that can overtake you. Along with these other suggestions, staying present in the “now” can help you become aware of your triggers and also your tools for calming yourself.