What Is Blue Monday? Here’s How To Make It Through The Most Depressing Day Of The Year
It’s official. This Monday is the most depressing day of the year. We’re not quite sure who named it Blue Monday, but we’re definitely feeling the short winter days, tiresomely long nights and juggling an ongoing economic crisis.
But we promise there are things we can be cheery about – the nights are slowly getting longer with 7pm sunset around the corner, and it’s not completely freezing. If that doesn’t lift your spirits a little, we have a few motivating tips and ways to put a smile on your face.
Tips to get you through Blue Monday
1. Make A List Of All The Things You’re Grateful For
Pick up a pen and paper and jot down all the things you are grateful for. While it sounds trite, it actually works. It keeps your mind focused, de-stressed and generally provides a whole heap of optimism.
2. Do A Good Deed
One thing that can make you feel better is helping someone else feel better. The act of giving reportedly stimulates the same parts of the brain as food and sex. Invest some of your energy in supporting a charity through donations or your time, volunteering for the NHS, helping someone out at work, or simply chatting with a relative or friend who might be lonely.
3. Download These Mindfulness Apps
While too much time on your phone can make your brain stale, there are plenty of apps out there that can boost your wellbeing through meditation, mindfulness exercises and smile-inducing reminders. Try some of these wellness apps to get you going.
4. Step Outside
A mere 20 minutes amongst nature (yes, London parks count) can help boost your mood, according to research in Scientific Reports. Taking in the fresh air and the beauty around us can lower stress hormone levels and boost self-esteem. Plus, any time in the daylight will help increase your depleted vitamin D resources. The Journal of Internal Medicine found that it helped people combat depression. Help yourself and order a vitamin D supplement too.
5. Tidy Up
Tidy house, tidy mind, as they say. No idea who “they” are, but it makes sense to us. A bed piled high with unclean clothes and a sink filled with dirty plates is not going to make you feel better. This Blue Monday, try tackling a few areas of your home and reap the benefits of a happy mind and clean space.
6. Exercise
Exercise has a profound effect on our overall happiness and well-being, so much so that it’s scientifically proven to be an effective strategy for overcoming depression. We’ve harped on a lot about exercise this month, with everything from the best activewear to luxe London gyms to know.
7. Meditate
“Omms” and “ahhhs” may make you feel silly, but the sounds you release during a meditative session send vibrations around the body. It focuses the mind, body and soul, plus, it’s generally super relaxing.
8. Listen To These Mood-Boosting Playlists
Do you know what is not scientifically proven, but is tried and tested by The Handbook? Dancing around your room or house to a feel-good playlist first thing in the morning. Really, try it. It’s liberating. And if you can’t find the right tunes to wiggle to, we’ve made you a helpful motivational playlist.
9. Book A Holiday
Your post-Christmas bank account might not look like the best time to start thinking of travels, but planning ahead really is key to saving on holidays. Dream of lying on the beach in the Seychelles, sipping bubbles in Champagne or cruising down the Amazon? Making it a reality by getting online and making the most of some of the great deals out there. Alternatively, start thinking about where you want to go this year (or next) so you can be sure to secure your plans with plenty of notice. Check out our Travel Section for inspo.
10. Turn Off Social Media
Turn off your apps now. No TikTok, no Instagram, no Facebook. It’s quite a good one to implement this Blue Monday, too. Simply turn off your notifications and focus on yourself.
11. Fake Laugh
Ok, hear us out. Have you ever tried fake laughing until you laugh for real? Trust us, it’s a thing. Laughter has many benefits, and even simulating it can help bring them about. Laughter enhances your intake of oxygen, which stimulates your organs and increases endorphins. A good hearty chuckle can also relieve stress. So whether you need a stand-up comedian to get you going or want to fake it at your desk, give giggling a go.
If you’re struggling with your mental health and need some support, find more information at Mind. Alternatively, call the Samaritans helpline 24/7 for free, on 116 123.
