Friday, January 25, 2008

Mind, Body & Soul

The world is beginning to see health holistically and not just as a biological (physical) state. That’s why yoga and tai-chi have become so popular as they take into consideration the mind, body and soul. However each individual is different and you may find that prayer helps you to be in a positive state. The guideline is to do whatever you are comfortable with.
We’ve talked at length about how people with HIV can live a full life by taking care of their bodies. Here we’ll look at the role of the mind and soul and how you can manage them.


If you want to feel good, decide to feel good. It’s not unusual for people with HIV to get into a depressed state of mind. They feel life is over and once you get yourself into this cycle, it can affect everything else in your life like work, finance, health, family, relationships etc. It has a snowball effect.

But you can decide to get out of this depressed state by saying, “No to depression. And Yes to being happy.”

Happy Tips
· Once you’ve made this commitment, get the help of friends, family and support groups to help you along. Sometimes just enjoying a meal with loved ones is enough to keep your spirits up.
· Go out, exercise, laugh, share, do anything that makes you happy.
· Get up every day and say, “It’s going to be a good day.”
· If thoughts and moods of sadness and depression arise, don’t give in to them. Remember you make the choice.
· Read about other HIV+ people who’ve managed to live a full life with HIV. This is important because you share something in common and they will actually be able to understand what you’re going through. Plus they may have useful suggestions that may be helpful for you.
· Join a support group for HIV+ people.
· It’s easier said than done we know but you have to make that commitment
· Don’t stress yourself. Pace your life, work, commitments etc. Get the help of loved ones to help where they can by paying bills, doing chores etc.
· It will also help when you share your feelings with someone who can listen understand. Joining a support group can help. Alternatively, you could also call various organizations that offer counselling.
· Join a meditation class, yoga, tai-chi etc or read a book about how to meditate. It does help lower stress levels and helps you to relax.

Tips to Relax
· Breathe, breathe, breathe is the magic word. Whenever you’re feeling uneasy, restless or stressed, do simple breathing exercises. It’s the breath of life.
· Occupy your time with things you loved to do before diagnosis.
· Start a hobby – reading, gardening etc
· Watch comedy movies.
· Laugh every chance you get.
· Listen to music with happy messages.
· Above all, always have a positive outlook in life.

No comments: