To increase your happiness, let's look within ourselves? (Mindfulness & Self-Care)

Sometimes we feel very sad, lonely, and anxious. It's like being alone in a dark room. Maybe you're already taking medication or counseling for a condition like depression. Along with those things, paying a little attention to your inner self can be a great strength to increase your happiness and control your emotions. This is not something you have to do all at once. When you start with something small and make it a habit, you will notice a big difference over time.

What is 'Mindfulness'?

Simply put, mindfulness means living in the present moment, without worrying about the past or worrying about the future. Just observing the thoughts that come to your mind, paying attention to the sensations in your body. But without judgment.

Imagine paying attention to the way the shirt you're wearing feels, or the way the food you're eating tastes. That's what mindfulness is.

Meditation, yoga, and tai chi can help you take a break from your busy thoughts. They can help you change your perspective on life and help you cope with the good and bad. But for the best results, it's important to set aside some time each day for this.

Let's stop blaming ourselves, shall we?

When you're in a state like depression, everything seems bad. Even if you make a small mistake, it feels like someone is scolding you from the inside, doesn't it? Thoughts like "Why did I do this?" and "I'm worthless" come to mind.

But the truth is: You are not that voice in your head. When that voice starts to criticize you, control it. Try these things:

• Give yourself the same advice you would give your best friend: Imagine if something like this happened to your best friend, what would you say to him? Would you scold him? No, right? Would you talk to him in a loving way and comfort him. Do the same for yourself.
• Ask that voice for evidence: "Is what you're saying true? Can you prove it?" Ask that very thought. You'll know for yourself whether it's true or just an angry sound.
• Look at the situation differently: If someone treated you badly, it's not always your fault. Maybe the person was under a lot of stress, and you were just there at the time.

Be creative and express what's on your mind.

Art is a very safe and healthy way to release the darkness and sadness in your heart. There is great power in allowing your deepest feelings to flow creatively. It's not that hard to get started. Take up an old hobby again, or try something new.

Don't be shy or think, "Oh, I can't do this" when you do these things. It's not important what the result is. What's important is that you do it.

Make time to do things that make you happy.

For a healthy mind, happiness is essential. It can't all be meditation and art. You also need to laugh and do things that you normally enjoy. This is a little harder with depression. So, include these things in your daily routine. Even if you don't feel happy right now, keep doing them. Over time, it will bring you a lot of peace.

Find a purpose in life.

When we lack a clear purpose in life, we can feel lost. Studies show that people with a strong sense of purpose are better able to cope with life's challenges. For some, this purpose comes from religion. For others, it comes from their job. If you can't think of a place to start, try this:

Take a break, take a 'timeout'

Even when playing a game, we take a 'timeout', right? Why is that? Stop for a while, plan again, gather your strength, and play. It's the same in life. When you feel a lot of weight or pressure on your mind, don't be afraid to take a 'timeout'. At that time, do something that calms your mind.

Resting doesn't mean "just being there" or "being lazy." Think of it as something essential to keeping you healthy, just like eating and sleeping.