Kris' Story
Kris shares how yoga, photography, hiking and a deep connection to nature helped him in his battle against depression.
"The more I opened up, the more I found that so many others also struggle."
About Kris:
I am a full time photographer and a manager for a large team in the electrical industry.
WHAT WAS THE MAJOR TURNING POINT IN YOUR RECOVERY FROM DEPRESSION?
A few years ago, I had really been struggling with life for a long time and felt so alone in this world. I had poured everything I had into work and thought the relationship I was in was what life was supposed to be. The harder I tried to fit into a life, the more lost and alone I found myself.
I felt my only option was to leave this world, as hurting those around me by leaving my work, family, and friends or changing myself seemed worse than leaving this life. It got to a point of having all details worked out and it took an environment awakening moment. I sat under the stars one night on what I truly thought was my last night and had peace.
I truly listened to the earth breathing that night and that was the last night my mind thought it was the end. I found what I truly needed to find, and that is a connection to our environment. Either from nature or yoga/exercise.
The more I opened up, the more I found that so many others also struggle. As I continued opening up, I felt stronger and more connected. The stronger I felt, the more I was able to pour my energy into the endless smiles that my friends and family see today. They hear the endless enthusiasm in the smallest things as I am truly grateful for each day.
WHAT ARE SOME THINGS THAT REALLY HELPED?
- The biggest thing that helped was yoga everyday.
- Photography and hiking and being outside.
- Forest bathing and enjoying the great outdoors. Walking barefoot in the forest and feeling the true connection.
- Great friends and cutting out drama.
- I find things, no matter how small or large, to be grateful for and everyday I am thankful for what the day has brought. Even on the tough days.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO OTHER GUYS FIGHTING DEPRESSION?
Give a hug and take a hug, we don’t hug enough and truly give a hug like a big hug… everyone needs one.
Acknowledge your warning signs and triggers, and respect them. Allow them to be there and tell people when you’re there in a tough space. We are all there at times and it is okay!
I start each day knowing it begins and ends, and even on bad days I can do 24 hours. Talk about it and talk more about it, the more I talked to my friends about it the more it helped. Whether it be a professional or a friend or a helpline.
Talk about it!! Book a yoga class. And then book another one.
– Kris Hudson, Calgary, AB, Canada 