In this episode of DE215, The show opens with the track mix of “Speak To Me” this was written about two people having an exchange of energy (conversation) with each other, without ever speaking a word to each other. James shares his work in progress, Ebook free download of “Depression fighters for you” that will be available to all as a free download, it’s a valuable tool to keep with you on your phone and will allow you to access it anytime that nasty depressed state sneaks up on you! He also reaches out to YOU! the audience to help him decide on Depression Fighter #7 to complete the Ebook, he is not giving away his thoughts on it, as he wants and values YOUR ideas! Please let him know your thoughts on the blog post, leave a comment, or an idea, we love to hear from you! Strategy #1 You Gotta Move! I learned this one 20 years ago from Tony Robbins, and it remains at the top of my list. Get up, get out, get moving! It really is that simple, you don’t even need any complicated exercise program (although anything physical will help) Just start walking, then maybe you turn it into a faster walk as your blood gets moving, then perhaps a jog. We have an old saying in the Yoga Community, “the hardest part is just showing up” and it is so true. It’s so easy to turn on the TV, flop into an easy chair or couch and open a big bag of potato chips and a beer. But if you are feeling low and depressed, you just put three more strikes against feeling better. No movement, bad food, and alcohol, you will not be feeling better today. Releasing feel-good endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals (endogenous cannabinoids) and other natural brain chemicals that can enhance your sense of well-being. Taking your mind off worries so you can get away from the cycle of negative thoughts that feed depression and anxiety. Doing 30 minutes or more of exercise a day for three to five days a week may significantly improve depression or anxiety symptoms. But smaller amounts of physical activity — as little as 10 to 15 minutes at a time — may make a difference. It may take less time exercising to improve your mood when you do more-vigorous activities, such as running or bicycling. Strategy #2 You Gotta Laugh! Use disruptive tactics like putting on a few comedy clips, (for me its usually the three stooges) There is nothing better than putting this thing called “Life” into its proper perspective, ie; don’t take everything so seriously that you forget that “you gotta laugh” When you look at 3 adult men sleeping in the same bed till noon fully clothed, you know that your life is really very good comparatively! Did you ever notice that when you start laughing at something you're whole mood changes in an instant? The phrase “laughter is the best medicine” is so true, it's one way to forget your troubles, think about the now, and not the tomorrow, as Jesus teaches, tomorrow will have enough trouble in of itself, put your focus on today, (and him!) Laughing releases endorphins, the body’s “feel good” chemicals. Therefore, it provides short-term relief from tension and worry. Moreover, laughing reduces stress and strengthens social connections. As a result, one of the many benefits of laughter and humor is the power to combat anxiety and depression, according to researchers. Therefore, laughter is good medicine for mental health. Laughter is also a good tool to connect in social settings, go to a comedy club, meet new people, change your entire perspective, get busy and start laughing your ass off! Strategy #3 You Gotta help somebody! If you are feeling low, one of the fastest turn arounds for your mood of self-pity, oh poor me, Isolationism, and falling down and worshiping your own discomfort is to find someone who is really struggling! There are plenty out there who have real struggles, not enough food, water, and no place to sleep. If you want to change your mood, and your core beliefs, find someone who needs a kind word, a sandwich, a cup of coffee, or