There are a number of alternative treatments available to sufferers of mild to moderate depression. Treatments ranging from herbs and acupuncture to guided imagery are all finding their place in an ever modernizing approach to treating depression.
St John’s Wort
There are a number of herbal treatments available all claiming to relieve the symptoms of depression. However, there is conclusive evidence that high quality St John’s Wort is very effective in relieving the symptoms of mild depression. To learn more, please click on http://nccam.nih.gov/health/stjohnswort/ .
Meditation
Meditation is the art of breathing. Maintaining a steady breath while sitting relaxes the body and mind. You cultivate mindfulness by concentrating on the present moment and what it brings to you.
Reflexology
Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to various parts of the hands and feet such that it will stimulate the body to heal itself. These various points are said to represent various parts of the human body, and by applying pressure to them, they induce healing in that particular part of the body.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture stimulates the release of chemicals that alleviate the sensation of pain. It also corrects imbalances by stimulating the body functions to fight illnesses and conditions such as depression.
Massage
Massage is the art of using touch to promote relaxation concentrating on the link between mind and body. When the body is relaxed this is believed to promote relaxation and calmness in the mind. This will lead to lowering symptoms of depression. There are a number of massage therapies available such as shiatsu, Swedish and spinal release therapy.
Guided Imagery
Guided Imagery uses powerful mental image techniques to promote harmony between the mind and body. The patient is encouraged to see peaceful mental images that create calm within the mind of the patient. This is taught as a coping skill that can be used to fight unhealthy negative emotions such as anger, as well as helping relieving pain, stress and depression. It can also help relieve insomnia which is a symptom of depression and anxiety.
Physical Exercise
Physical exercise produces endorphins which cause a natural ‘high’ felt by the person. Exercise is known to relax the body and mind along with relieving stress and depression.
