Monday 29 June 2015

You cannot find peace by avoiding life
                                                     Virginia Woolf,Writer


.......so said the person who was deeply troubled during her entire life. Woolf was continuously buffeted by depression,mental illness,phases of intense happiness and then periods where she didn't know where her life was headed. She committed suicide by drowning at the age of 59. Despite battling with her demons she produced some of the best works in English literature with modernistic outlook.

She knew that peace cannot be had by running away from life, by avoiding or shutting out life.

Today I want to address some of my friends who are going through some upheavals and are suffering from depression.I know them to be perfectly capable good human beings who can face life and find happiness.But something seems to be pulling them back, not allowing them to reach out and turn the tide.

What is it that people who face death,experience life changing events turn to?Some have their religion,some have their close families while some are doing it, i.e, turning the tide, on their own.So what is their secret?To me the most relevant and important factor is the will power to take stock and convince oneself that 'I' and 'only I' can do it. No one can live your life, no one knows what you are going through so no one can suffer your pain,your angst,your voices-in-the-head. Yes, a loving family, a good partner can definitely help but finally it's you who has to do the turnaround. More than religion its spirituality that can contribute to our mental health and put things in perspective.All other aspects like positive outlook,physical exercises particularly yoga can do wonders.The ancient techniques of breath control, pranayam, is in itself a spiritual exercise and helps stable the mind.

So dear friends, reach out and take control of your life




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