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Holistic Help
Treating Depression Naturally By Amy Carey
As you might have guessed, exercise also has been shown to improve symptoms of depression. Deborah Thompson, a registered nurse at the Association for Research and Enlightenment at the Edgar Cayce Foundation in Virginia Beach, Va., says the organization's program "consistently stresses the importance of moderate outdoor exercise in sunlight for relaxation ... and in certain cases, as a form of phototherapy."
Phototherapy is the use of light to treat illness and has been used for centuries as a natural means of treating depression. Behling adds that exercising at least 30 minutes, three times a week can increase serotonin levels. Serotonin, an important neurotransmitter in the brain, is found to be reduced in depressive people.
In addition, Behling suggests patients practice a relaxing activity like prayer, yoga, Thai Chi, meditation or even sports like swimming or sailing. Thompson says the Edgar Cayce Foundation encourages an "ideals exercise," which involves recognizing and correcting dysfunctional attitudes and beliefs and establishing priorities for long-term health maintenance.
Remember, if you think you suffer from depression or another mental illness, be sure to consult your family doctor or other health specialist before you attempt any treatment plan. When considering treatment options, keep in mind that different people react differently to herbs and medications. "Not every person will respond to the same antidepressant, so there's no guarantee a natural approach will work for you," says Schimelpfening. "But it's certainly worth giving it a try. You have the potential to save yourself money, time and debilitating side effects."
