Truly listening helps depression.

Take time out to listen to others. I mean really listen.
When people are talking do you think of an opinion? Do you think of what you want to say next? Maybe you can't even wait for them to finish before you have to add something? This is so common now a days. People are so wrapped up in their lives that they have lost the ability to truly listen.
When you're depressed, one of the things is that you become very wrapped up in yourself and your emotions. It is at this time that you often fnd yourself not really listening to others unless you can relate to what they are saying. A way to help yourself with this is to become aware first of all that you are doing this.
Next, try to listen to someone, preferably a friend, talking. When they are talking, focus totally on what they are saying. When you do this, don't think of your own opinion. It is actually quite difficult. What this does is help you to focus your attention away from yourself. It's not only great for your friend because you are paying such great attention, but it is excellent for you!
To help yourself in not forming opinions, ask pertinent questions and actively participate in the conversation. Try to remain positive and non- judgemental.
During this next week, make it your mission to focus on what others are saying, without feeling the need to explain anything of yourself. Don't worry if no one asks you about yourself either. It actually helps you to remain focused on your task! Let go of expecting others to ask you about your well being!
I hope the week ahead is filled with great conversations and fabulous listening on your part!
Take care
Deb
xx

Letting go....

It has come to my attention that there are many people out there, who just can't let things go!! It may be something big or small, it doesn't matter, the point is that if you don't release it, it will rule you and affect your mental state contributing to an increasing depression.
We are not always aware of the fact that we are harbouring thoughts about someone who has wronged us - in our eyes. We think we have moved on but find ourselves discussing the issue with many friends repeatedly. Have a think....... has this happened to you recently? Do you find yourself speaking ill of someone in particular , frequently?
Letting go is not as easy as it sounds. It is something that only you can do and is totally controlled by you and the way you react to situations. Here are some tips for letting go:
1. Acknowledge that you are repeatedly refering to a situation and carrying around bad feelings about it.
2. Purchase a 'letting go' book, which is  a blank book for you to write in. It is here that you are going to write about all the bad feelings you feel and everything that you want to do. It will probably not be reading for anyone other than yourself!!
3. Every day, several times a day, whenever you have thoughts of anger or irritation about this person or situation, you need to write it down in the book. Instead of repeating yourself to those around you, you are now going to remain silent on the issue and only write about it.
4. This is a process , which means it will take some time, but eventually you'll find you write in there less and less because the issue diminishes in importance. You are beginning to let go..

Letting go is of incredible importance to our mental state. If we hold onto past hurts, angers, irritations and grievances, we keep all the resentments inside us. It is all this that can fester and assist in causing dis-eases like cancer.  Be aware of how you feel towards those who are close to you and repair any grievances.
By letting go, you will bring more peace into your life and chase away the cobwebs of depression.

May the week ahead be one where you release the hurts and begin to see life as a wonderful place again.
Take care till next time..
Deb