I just wanted to very quickly quote from the UK’s Guardian Newspaper which had some great advice for leading a happier life. Struck me that it would be useful for anxiety and depression sufferers, as well as anyone who is just a bit stressed out.
The advice basically came in four parts.
The first was entitles "Give yourself permission to be human" and can be summed up as allowing emotions to come out. Get over the stigma in our societies against people who show negative or too much emotion. Blocking our emotions doesn’t help us, and tends to make us feel more anxious and depressed. Accept how you feel.
Secondly, one should simplify life. Don’t take on too much or try to do too many things at the same time. Focus on doing fewer things with more quality. It is much more enjoyable!
Thirdly, take regular exercise. I have talked on this blog before about the benefits of exercise when it comes to anxiety and depression. Basically though, for some people it is as good as or better than taking an anti-depressant! Read more in this post on exercise, depression and stress.
Lastly, focus on positive things and make an effort each day to be grateful for what you have got. The article suggests making a list of good things which have happened each day. Seems to work for me!
Happy and peaceful 2008!
