Choosing Presentness: Healing from Depression and Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are commonly described as the result of living in the past or the future rather than the present.

Depression: Living in the Past

Depression often stems from making a choice, usually unconscious, to dwell on the past. The past is a familiar, albeit potentially painful, place where we have our memories and experiences. However, the past is gone—merely memories, which are akin to death. When we stay stuck in this past, we fail to live in the present and thus find ourselves depressed. By confronting and accepting our past, we can better navigate the present moment.

Anxiety: Anticipating the Future

Anxiety, on the other hand, arises when we choose to live predominantly in the future. We often feel anxious about future uncertainties, such as employment or relationships. Thoughts like, 'If I get this job, I'll be happy,' or 'If he/she loves me, I'll be content,' highlight the fear that we won't achieve these supposedly fulfilling states. As a result, we live in constant anticipation, never truly present, and experience anxiety.

Living in the Present

To overcome both depression and anxiety, we must consciously choose to live in the present moment. The present is the only thing we have. The past is gone, and the future is uncertain. To live in the present means to feel our bodies, as the body is always in the present. This awareness helps us detach from negative past experiences and future worries.

How to Heal

Cleansing Emotions and Stress

The first step to healing is to clear any blocked emotions and stress that we carry within. These emotions function like colored glasses, tinting our perceptions and feelings. They also control our thoughts, often without our awareness.

Cleaning Emotions: Emotions are like water. If allowed to flow freely, they remain clear and healthy. If they stagnate or are blocked, they can rot. It's best to release them in a safe and private space, such as through writing, deep breathing exercises, or journaling.

Self-Love and Trust: Filling your heart with love, trust, and appreciation is crucial. Only you can fill your heart; external sources are insufficient. This self-love and trust are the foundations of self-worth and self-esteem.

Developing Intuition: To achieve inner peace and joy, find a serene inner space where you can communicate with your intuition. Practices such as deep meditation can help guide your thoughts and decisions.

Deep Meditation and Intuition

Deep meditation involves letting your thoughts pass by and focusing your life's guidance on your heart. This practice helps you take responsibility for your life and happiness. By tapping into your inner peace, you can better navigate life's challenges.

The Isha system is a popular method for deep meditation, which helps practitioners develop a deeper connection with their inner self and intuition.

Attaining Inner Balance

A wise person strives to achieve a perfect balance between the mind, feelings, and will. This balance is essential for becoming the best version of yourself. Only when you love, trust, and appreciate yourself will you be able to truly love and be loved by others.

To foster these qualities, start small and see significant changes over time. Praise, bless, and thank everywhere and everyone, every time. Cultivate a positive attitude toward life, actively giving rather than taking.

Conclusion

Living in the present moment is not just about being aware of the here and now, but it is a powerful tool for healing from depression and anxiety. By choosing presentness, we can rewrite our relationship with the past and the future and find true happiness and peace within ourselves.