5 FUNWAYS TO FIGHT DEPRESSION

Community mental health teams in other countries run therapeutic baking classes. Can’t bake? The International Centre for Culinary Arts has artisan bread-making classes (www. iccadubai.ae) and Cake Story Dubai can teach you about scrumptious cakes (www. cakestorydubai.com). Studies show that Salsa dancing not only gets you fit, it’s also a form of therapy. The music alone is enough to lift your spirits so slip on your Latin shoes and literally dance yourself happy. Join successful salsa dancers James and Alex at their dance studios in Dubai Media City to learn the moves (www.jamesandalex.com). Ever seen a miserable kangaroo? Of course not – that’s why hopping on a trampoline is a must. According to studies, biological imbalances in the body can lead to mental health problems and some believe bouncing can readdress them. Visit Bounce, Dubai’s indoor trampoline playground with 100 interconnecting trampolines (www.bounce.ae). Yoga is used to treat stress and depression. US scientists found that the levels of the amino acid Gaba are much higher in Yoga fans. Gaba is essential for the brain and nervous system and low levels are associated with depression and anxiety disorders. Check out Urban Yoga for classes and workshops (www.urbanyoga.ae). Studies show animals relieve tension and improve your mood. But don’t race to the pet shop just yet – people with depression can struggle with the demands of an animal. Borrow a friend’s dog and take it for a walk, or help out at an animal rescue shelter such as K9 Friends (www.k9friends.com) or Feline Friends Dubai (www.felinefriendsdubai.com).