…the tough get going right? Ha, not exactly. My “tough” is getting the kids to school and maybe, and I really do want to emphasize maybe, take a shower that day. To the outside depression really seems to weaken a person but it takes a super strong person to trudge through the day (days and days and days), taking care of other people while breathing for yourself can be a job.
My point? When depression or anxiety starts to pull you down, I’ve noticed that a few things can help me crawl back up. With the help of my Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Workbook, which I mention in this blog, I’ve come up with both a relaxation and distraction plan to cut off the darkness when it comes. It doesn’t always help but may help you.
Distraction Plan:
- Text a friend. This is a duh for me. Texting my besties always makes me feel better
- Call my mom. My mom and I are very close and it always feels better to hear her voice
- Get a massage. This always makes me feel good although my schedule is not flexible enough to just drop anything and go, so sometimes stretching and lying on a foam roller feels just as good.
- Read a book. Enough said.
- Eat chocolate. Again enough said.
- Get under a weighted blanket and take a nap
I also like to say little prayers or sayings that give me peace. For example, “May God heal you, body and soul. May your pain cease. May your strength increase. May your fears be released. May love and joy surround you.”
Relaxation Plan:
- Take a bubble bath
- Turn on the TV and just listen
- Take a nap.
- Put on your most comfortable clothes, even if it’s sweats.
- Get a massage.
- Listen to soothing music.
- Enjoy your favorite meal.
- Burn some scented candles. I have to be careful of this because if I burn the wrong one, hello migraine.
If you noticed I didn’t write anything about going outdoors, not my thing. But taking a walk or soaking up some sun can do wonders, too.
I hope these lists help and hey, if they don’t, make your own damn list.
Thanks for reading. Stay in the light.
