Simple, natural relief for managing depression symptoms

Simple, natural relief for managing depression symptoms

Can a simple healthy habit help you deal with depression? The answer is yes!

A hot bath can help you manage many of the symptoms associated with depression. Immersing yourself in warm water can help reduce anxiety, relax physically and lead to improved well-being. Bathing can relieve tense feelings, help you calm down emotionally, and relieve mental fatigue. A hot bath can also help you fall asleep and relieve the insomnia that is common with depression.

Hot baths are great on their own, but when added to a healthy dose of Epsom salt, they're so much better. First discovered in the town of Epsom, England and in the 17th century.

Epsom salt is rich in magnesium. Excess adrenaline, stress, and anxiety common during depression are believed to deplete the body of magnesium. Studies show that the high concentrations of magnesium sulfate in Epsom salts are easily absorbed through the skin during a long bath. Epsom salt baths can increase magnesium levels in the blood, resulting in greater well-being and relaxation. The theory is that magnesium helps release and maintain serotonin levels, resulting in a sedative effect. Plus, combine the relaxing effects of a hot bath with the added benefits of a magnesium pacifier, and there's hardly a better remedy for the tired, aching muscles that often accompany depression.

Depression is emotionally and mentally draining. If you need immediate relief, don't wait until it's the "appropriate" time. Even if it's ten in the morning and you've already showered, if you feel like a bath might help, you should take action. Sitting quietly in warm water, simply breathing in and out, is often enough to provide immediate relief. If you put in a little extra effort, dim the lights, light a candle, and add a few drops of lavender oil to the water, and you'll have a luxurious aromatherapy bath that can help ease the pain of the moment.

If you don't have enough energy to prepare the bath, call someone close to you for help. . It may seem silly to call someone to take a bath, but that's okay. It won't be as bad as you think. People close to you really want to help, and keeping the bathroom clean and running is a tangible action they can do for you.

Depression is real and requires real self-soothing strategies. Of course, a bath is not the magic bullet that will make depression go away. But don't deny the power of simple, everyday remedies. Bathing helps free your mind and body from painful symptoms of depression. Bathing is a coping measure that can really make a difference in helping you get through the day. Follow your intuition and take baths often.

Inspired by Annette Colby