Mood Boosters: Part III

Activity

Hi there,

Perhaps the most common recommendation I make in practice-whether the primary issue be anxiety, depression, or both- is activity.  Inactivity breeds anxiousness and depressed mood.  Newton said it best, "An object at rest stays at rest.".  When we feel anxious or depressed we don't feel like doing much of anything and not doing much of anything can lead to greater anxiety and depression-somewhat of a catch 22.  Activity is important in the reinforcing cycle of behavioral activation which illustrates that activity scheduling and productivity/mastery can have a profound effect on how we feel.  Put simply it states that when we are active, feel productive, or like we mastered something we are more likely to feel better emotionally and likewise when we feel better emotionally we are more likely to take on activities and do things we like .... or things we previously enjoyed but lost interest in.  Besides the physiological component activity precipitates-like the rush of endorphins or the activation of some very important neurotransmitters- it helps psychologically by focusing your attention on something other than how you feel.  

​For instance:

1. Relaxation exercises like deep breathing help you concentrate on centering your breath on the present moment rather than thinking about how anxious you feel. 
2. Doing something productive helps you feel mastery or a sense of  accomplishment-the opposite of how you feel when anxious or depressed.
3. Engaging in an activity you enjoy reinforces positive mood and can be a distraction from unpleasant thoughts.  

Dr. S

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