The Time Traveler

When HEROES started to air on tv, I've always been fascinated and amazed with Hero Nakamura's superpower. Out of all the great powers you can get, his is what I admired most. Why? Well, we all wish at one point to travel back in time for whatever reasons we may have... Could it be to correct that one mistake we have done in the past; To reunite with our lost loved ones; To just have one more chance to experience the same adrenalin rush: To anticipate what's going to happen in the future; To alter that one incident in our life that could entirely change our present. There are so many reasons, I bet. I'd like to  believe at one point, we all have dreamed of this.

I for myself have always been dreaming this could be real. Though in reality this concept doesn't exist. But hey, we're all dreamers believe me! How cool is that to rewind a certain scenario of your life, or even fast forward to see what happens next or to even pause and play it back after?

If only I could turn back time. Just for one more chance to cradle you in my arms again. I'd trade for anything and everything just to feel your tiny hands again. It's been 10 years now, my sweet lil angel... But still I miss you! Whatever future holds, you'll always be loved and remembered.

Knock! Knock Anonymous!

Okay, so there's another comment waiting to be published. Infact, I've got 4 pending now awaiting for moderation. Tsk! Tsk! Sweetie, I really don't want to be rude so please don't push me.. 

Walang taong perpekto! Hindi ko maintindihan ano ba gusto mo palabasin sa lahat ng mga comments mo. Pulos salita ka! Ayaw mo naman magpakilala. May nagawa ba kong masama sayo? Kung mayroon man, humihingi ako ng pasensya. Tama ka! 2012 na di ba, so let's move on na! Kung ayaw mo pa rin tumigil wala na ko magagawa sayo!

A fight against depression

Here we go again... Time of the year when I usually get depressed. Month of Hearts! Yes, February means so much to me, not because of Valentine's day really but there's more to that. For the past few years, well, almost 10 years now chronic depression hits me during the last few days of January until the end of Feb. There's certain sadness I feel even if I tried to resist. This has to stop... It's just mind over matter!

So, What Exactly is Chronic Depression?

Depression is a mental state characterized by overwhelming feelings of sadness. Most people experience temporary sadness in response to specific events or losses. However, when this sadness persists for an extended period, with symptoms that occasionally subside but often return, it's referred to as chronic depression or dysthymia. While considered a milder form of depression, dysthymia can persist for years, leaving those affected feeling consistently unhappy.

What Causes Dysthymia?

The precise cause of chronic depression is not yet understood. However, certain factors are associated with dysthymia, including high levels of stress, imbalances in brain chemicals, and hereditary factors.

What are the Symptoms of Chronic Depression?

The symptoms of chronic depression are similar to that of major depression. They include:

• Difficulty falling asleep
• Fatigue or low energy levels
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Loss of interest and enjoyment in activities
• Noticeable physical and mental sluggishness
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty making decisions, concentrating, or thinking clearly
• Persistent thoughts of death or suicide

I haven't really thought of the last bullet, though. Well, not in many years... This year will be different, and I say it's a MUST. I decided it's best to do something about it — depression doesn't just go away on its own. So, I plan to take these steps to combat depression:

1. I'll incorporate a daily 15- to 30-minute brisk walk, dance, or bike ride into my routine. Regular physical activity can significantly improve mood and overall well-being.
2. I'll prioritize proper nutrition by consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables and maintaining regular meals. Certain foods like papaya, tuna, apples, liver, peaches, mangoes, broccoli, strawberries, whole grains, grapefruit, guava, and whole milk can positively impact mood and energy.
3. I'll pinpoint the situations contributing to my depression and confide in supportive friends or use my online journal as a therapeutic outlet.
4. I'll actively engage my creativity and sense of fun, helping to unlock positive emotions. Whether it's enjoying time at Timezone with my nephews or finding humor in a funny movie, laughter will be key to brightening my mood.
5. I'll practice patience and focus on recognizing the good aspects of life. Reflecting on my strengths, gifts, and blessings will help me persevere through the healing process, knowing that depression takes time to overcome. This too shall pass.

Chronic depression may cast its shadow, but I'm armed with a plan to let the light back in. It's a process that requires patience and self-compassion. But I'm ready to embrace it, armed with the knowledge that this too shall pass.

Here's to brighter days ahead, resilience, and the unwavering belief that we can conquer even the toughest battles.