Blue Monday? 7 ways to beat it this year
It’s the most depressing day of the year.
Today is Blue Monday and if you’re feeling under the weather then don’t worry; we’re all in the same boat.
We got through the first week of January on sheer adrenaline and left over mince pies, but now we’re in the middle of the month, payday seems an age away, it’s cold, the mornings are unbearably dark and the reality of life is sinking back in.
But don’t be defeated.
Use today as inspiration to increase your sense of wellbeing, setting you up for the year ahead.
Here are 7 ways to beat Blue Monday!
Forget Blue Monday and embrace the new year with new found energy
1. Let there be light
As discussed, it’s dark. When that alarm goes off at 7am it still feels like the middle of the night. And then come 4pm, the sun has gone again.
So make sure you get some vitamin D today and get out into the natural light. A walk at lunchtime, could become a new routine until the mornings become less moody.
2. Practice gratitude
We don’t want to sound all LA, but being grateful for all you have is a brilliant way to stave off those feelings of inadequacy and envy which often come at this time of year. Especially when EVERYBODY else seems to be on exotic holidays and living it up on tropical beaches.
You’ll be surprised how many thing you’ll find to go on your gratitude list
So make a quick list of all the things you’re grateful for and you’ll be amazed at how quickly your mood improves. From a loving family to having a roof over your head and that first cup of coffee in the morning to the bus waiting for you as you arrive at the stop; there’s a lot to be thankful for.
3. Break a sweat
We all know that exercise releases all those lovely endorphins so whether it’s a brisk stroll, a swim at your local pool or a tough session at the gym, you’ll feel the benefit in countless ways.
Some new activewear will make doing some exercise just a bit more inviting! L-R: Souluxe Navy Zip Tape Sports Hoodie (£16) and Souluxe Navy Neon Speckle Gym Leggings (£14) at Matalan
4. Be kind
Doing something altruistic is a great way to improve feelings of self-esteem and overall happiness. So why not compliment your colleague, make a donation to charity, do something thoughtful for your partner, open doors for others or any other act that puts someone else first?
5. Be kind to yourself
And don’t forget to be kind to yourself. Small things can make all the difference so whether you draw yourself an indulgent bath, take half an hour out of the office to have some time alone, do some baking, cosy up in your comfiest clothes in front of a good movie or treat yourself to an inexpensive gift for your wardrobe or your home, suddenly Blue Monday won’t seem so bad.
Light a scented candle as you take a long relaxing bath or cuddle up under a super soft throw for the ultimate in cosy vibes! L-R: Large 3 Wick Pink Gin Candle (£8) and Knitted Chenille Throw Blanket (£22) at Matalan
6. Reach out to friends
It’s easy to lose touch with friends as our busy lives take over, so make the effort today to check in with those you haven’t seen for a while.
Not only will they appreciate the thought, but you’ll gain so much from reigniting these meaningful relationships.
Book in some lunches, brunches, walks, coffees and general hang outs with friends and you’ll have plenty to look forward to as you move into the new year
7. Make plans
Sometimes when it seems that everyone is living an exciting or ‘perfect’ life, all you need to do to stop the comparisons, is make some plans.
Booking a holiday is obviously a great way to cheer yourself up, but it doesn’t even need to be as big as that. Plan to see those long lost friends, plan a date night, plan a lunch, plan a walk; whatever it is, having lovely things to look forward to will banish the blues and get 2020 off to a fantastic start.