How women de-stress for mental health

Getting into a woman's mind is as complex as understanding the uncharted human brain.

Each emotion and mood swing is not just a sign of PMS - that great vortex to which is attributed nearly everything wrong with a woman's day; these are signs that she needs tender care, consideration and space. Since the world doesn't really get this, women have a system of fighting and de-stressing. Today we're listing it out for the uninitiated amongst our readers. Men might not understand these complex rituals, but you may try at your own risk. We open the Pandora's Box on how women deal with stress and depression in a positive way.

Shopping sprees are stress-free
Confessions of a shopaholic is not just a book, it is 'the' book for women and how to deal with a boring work life. Shopping is a great way to hangout with the girls, gossip about the men in their lives, but most importantly - a way to purge themselves from all worries and anxieties. Shopping forms a de-stress mantra that cannot easily be explained, but the health benefits are like the effects of an antioxidant fruit. The smile on a woman's face is priceless after a shopping spree.

 Dolling up to brighten the day
If men are trying to decode this de-stress mantra then you need to get in touch with your emotions. Women believe that when they wear their best outfit, bright and sassy, with accessories to boot and their favourite shoes, their day will feel a whole lot better. Dressing up makes women feel pretty, confident and makes them smile. They feel light and carefree like a butterfly; they experience a sense of excitement. It's true and sadly it cannot be scientifically proven.

 Reading is a hobby
Recently China revealed that women are obsessed with fashion magazines. We beg to differ. Women are not obsessed with fashion magazines, it's merely a way to chill out and read about the latest and the hottest fashion of the season. Fashion magazines are ways to escape reality, just as men are 'obsessed' with automobile and gadget magazines.

 But no stereotyping here, we'll stick to the fact that reading (no matter what the content's sexual orientation) makes for a great de-stressing tool for all the ladies out there.

 Nothing's wrong with applying make up
Make up can hide a woman's true feelings; you don't know what the woman feels behind that red lipstick. Cosmetics help women add a bit of glamour in their lives, it adds the oomph quotient to spruce up and spice life. It may be a mask, but it sure makes women cheer up and admire themselves in the mirror.

 Flaunting the best 'pics'
Social networking sites are a way to flaunt your life and the travel plans. It completely conceals the true identity of the account holder. But women love to upload 'pics' in their best dresses from exotic locations. It definitely puts you on the cool list among 'friends.' Women receive sympathy, love and praises thanks to that glamorous array of pictures. When dozens of people tell you that you look great, your day is bound to get better.

Rom-coms are women's favourite pastime
Feeling low and out? Switch on your favourite romantic comedy with a tub of 'healthy snacks'. This is one formula that works with women; it feels great to watch SRK romancing Kajol or Cameron Dias making you laugh with a quirky persona. Women love reel life over the mundane, same old real life. Movies, too, are a way to escape life's taunting moments.

 Communication is therapeutic
Any shrink will tell you, it's best to talk about your emotions and feelings. That is exactly what women love to do. Let's not get judgmental about it and the cell phone bill. Life is tough and women want to share their problems and love to offer solutions. Men may be able to discuss their problems in one sentence, but women need to really talk about the issues. Stress and depression can make women 'irritable', hence it is importance for women to relieve this tension the way they are comfortable in. Conversation is not just a discussion - it's therapy!

SOURCE - TIMES OF INDIA