HOW TO FIGHT THE BLUES Pt. 1

“You know those days when you get the mean reds?”

“The mean reds? You mean like the blues?”

“No, the blues are because you’re getting fat or maybe it’s been raining too long. You’re just sad, that’s all. The mean reds are horrible. Suddenly you’re afraid, and you don’t know what you’re afraid of. You ever get that feeling?’

BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY’S

Eyes crack to see the blurred image of faint light peeking through closed blinds. I resist the urge to immediately put on my eyeglasses and instead roll over on my back and allow my pupils to adjust to another day. It’s quiet. I like quiet mornings. My norm. But this sunrise I feel something that is no longer foreign to me. I can’t blame this particular struggle on 2020. No. I’ve been swapping blows with this Blue/Red variety for years now. I usually refer to IT as The Clouds. Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s calls IT “the mean reds”. The blues, a demon….whatever IT is….I know when I’m waking up to a fight.

mai practical tips on fighting depression

1. LET THE LIGHT IN. Literally. Open the curtains and the blinds. Allow natural light into your space. This is the 2nd thing I do most mornings. Even on cloudy days, it will make a difference. It is an easy and free mood booster…and if it happens to be a sunny day, the added benefit of getting some Vitamin D can only help.
2. COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS OUT LOUD. Words are powerful. The right ones can pierce the darkness. When that heavy feeling is trying to consume me, I try to go into a VERBAL gratitude prayer that focuses on all that I have, including those things that are often taken for granted like LIFE, MOBILITY, HEALTH, HEAT, HOT WATER, FAMILY, etc. This shifts me into a thankful mindset but also allows me to acknowledge God and that I’m not alone in any battle I’m facing.
3. GET CLEAN. Everyday. This may seem like it doesn’t need to be said, but trust me, anyone that has ever been physically sick (i.e. vulnerable to depression) or has suffered through a bout of “the mean reds”, they understand the challenge. Even if you are staying indoors, like many of us are during this pandemic, fight to get out of bed at a reasonable time of morning and get a warm bath or shower, topped with a cool water rinse to awaken your senses. Take the opportunity to MASSAGE your skin by slowly slathering on a body butter or moisturizer. TOUCH, even self touch, can be very comforting during this time. So be intentional and present with yourself.
4. WEAR BRIGHT COLORS. Even if it’s just your undergarments or socks. Scientific studies suggest that color has an affect on mood, but I will keep it personal as this is one of my major go to moves. I like wearing bright colors and even if I’m wearing all gray or black, particularly in the winter time, I will have on bright pink panties underneath. Makes me giggle every time I go to the restroom. Instant pick-me-up. Parts of my home are painted in bright red and yellow colors. Pops of color is not only great for your wardrobe or decor…but your soul.
5. TURN ON THE SOUNDS. Music is another powerful tool that can affect one’s mood. The strong instrumentation of any Earth, Wind & Fire classic to the lyrical content of Stevie Wonder to the soulful voice of India.Arie can lift the spirit. I warn you though. Music’s power can be used for good or evil. If you are lonely and heartbroken, this is not the time to have “Sandcastles” by Beyonce, “Another Sad Love Song” by Toni Braxton or even “Say So” by PJ Morton (one of my favs), on repeat. If you’re feeling hopeless and angry, stir clear of ANY song, even if upbeat, whose lyrics reinforce the feelings that you are ridding yourself of. I actually don’t like to listen to even some gospel songs that are slow and longing at certain times. Aim for upbeat, inspiring, FEEL GOOD music and put IT on repeat.

To be Continued….