Preface: I hope you decide to read on and if you do, please know that I am not discounting, diagnosing, or judging anyone that is or has ever experienced the energies of depression.
Have you ever felt lost at sea, alone and without any navigational tools? I have and I believe that 99% of us have experienced the impact of depression at some stage in our lives. I confess that depression envelops me like a powerful tsunami. Its dark depths have dragged me down, pulling me relentlessly with a fierce undertow, only to crash me onto a barren shore. Trembling, bruised, and struggling to breathe, I find it necessary to pause. I need to be still and channel all my remaining energy inward.
As foreign as depression may seem, an unexpected sense of safety washes over me—a lifeline thrown by an invisible force. Yet, I often hesitate to grasp this lifeline. It wraps around me, drawing me deeper into my own being.
In this darkness, I ponder: Do I want to struggle against the current, or do I let go and allow the waves of uncertainty to carry me wherever they please? What choices do I have? Why is this?
Although it may appear that there is something inherently wrong with depression, it is merely a human construct that prevents us from sinking to the ocean's depths. If we forget or fail to recognize our ability to release control and to ride the emotional tide, we risk drowning. Over the past 50+ years, I have submerged many times, yet I have also become quite the adept swimmer!
What is depression? Remember – this is according to Samantha!
Depression can be described in numerous ways, but I want to focus on its energetic perspective. I perceive depression as an inward withdrawal of energies, such as fear, pain, and confusion, into the deepest parts of our being. When we bottle up these feelings, suppressing and locking them away, we essentially imprison this energy, hindering its proper release. As this energy accumulates, so does the pressure, which strains our coping mechanisms. When the pressure surpasses our ability to cope, an explosion can occur—resulting in outbursts, isolation, or numbing ourselves with addictive substances like food or alcohol. This scenario is akin a submarine trying to open a window while submerged. Yet still we tug at that locked window knowing that when opened we will plunge to the bottom of the deepest ocean.
It is crucial, if not essential, to let go of fear and cease aimless thrashing, as this only drains our valuable energy. Surrender, allow things to unfold, and have faith that the descent into the depths of the ocean equips us with a solid foundation to propel ourselves upward once more. Rising with fresh insights and perspectives guiding us toward the surface. Only then can we find rest and genuinely appreciate the profound dive and the security of our life jacket.
Here are some ideas that I consider essential for support!
Recognize that depression isn't negative energy; it can serve as a protective mechanism.
Get moving! Physical activity channels energy outward. Engage in activities that redirect your focus from overwhelming emotions.
Examples: Walking, dancing, journaling, art therapy, meditation, and prayer.
Reach out to a trusted friend and ask them to listen. No need for fixing or advice, just ask to be heard.
Treat yourself with kindness!
Establish boundaries, particularly with those who take more than they give.
Embrace forgiveness. This includes forgiving others and, just as importantly, forgiving yourself.
Practice unconditional self-acceptance, free from criticism or judgment. We are all beautifully imperfect, with our own limitations. It's okay; everything will be alright. Remember your truth: you are whole, divine, loved, lovable, and loving. Acknowledge your beauty – I certainly do!
With love,
Samantha