It is completely normal to feel down from time to time but sometimes those feelings can linger.
Editor Jane Garton looks at some natural remedies which could help brighten your outlook.
Feeling low more often than not is a natural response to the challenges life throws at you, so it is always important to try and identify what it is that is causing you to feel this way and make some life changes to address the issues. If it gets too much or you need support always talk to a healthcare professional who will be able to point you in the right direction and advise you on the best course of action.
But in the mean time there are some natural herbal remedies which may help in times of stress, anxiety and low mood.
Numerous studies show that it can help to lift the spirits and bring the smile back to your face. The active ingredient hypericum is thought to help boost levels of the brain chemical serotonin – low levels of which have been linked with low mood.
If stress at work or at home is getting you down it may be worth giving Rhodiola a try. Like St John’s wort it helps to boost levels of serotonin in the brain, which in turn can improve mood and make you feel better about yourself.
PANAX GINSENG
This is another herb that can help to make you feel less listless. It belongs to a group of herbs known as adaptogens, which are thought to help strengthen the adrenals and balance the system generally. It is ideal for boosting vitality and energy.
If your low mood becomes frequent, persistent and starts to seriously affect your work and relationships it’s time to see your GP. You could be suffering from depression and the sooner you start treatment the sooner you will start to feel better.
EXTRA MOOD-BOOSTING TIPS
Try and be positive:
Write down three or four things that happened during the day that made you feel happy. Doing this for a month can help to switch your mindset from a negative one to a much more positive one.
Think about it:
Try to work out what you can and can’t change and focus only on those things you can.
Be kind to someone:
Research shows that we gain as much happiness from the act of being kind as the recipient does, plus it can act as a happy distraction for a little while.
Select your friends:
Spending time with positive rather than negative people can help to boost your happiness levels.
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