Home LivingWellnessBlue Monday: what it is & how to beat the January bluesDon’t let Blue Monday get you down with these 8 mood-boosting tipsWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Home LivingWellnessBlue Monday: what it is & how to beat the January bluesDon’t let Blue Monday get you down with these 8 mood-boosting tipsWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Don’t let Blue Monday get you down with these 8 mood-boosting tips
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
(Image credit: Annie Spratt / Unsplash)
(Image credit: Annie Spratt / Unsplash)
Today is the day that everyone dreads: Blue Monday. And let’s face it, January is a hard enough month as it is – there’s no money after Christmas, no meat or booze for those doing Veganuary or Dry January, and everyone is trying to eat healthy and blitz themselves in the gym.
It’s hardly surprising that Blue Monday happens in the first month of the year, and if you’re reading this on the 16th January 2023, then you’re currently experiencing Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year. In this article, I’ll take you through what Blue Monday is and give you top mood-boosting tips to help you avoid the myth and enjoy the day.
What is Blue Monday?
(Image credit: Holland & Barrett)
(Image credit: Holland & Barrett)
Whether you believe in Blue Monday or not, January is always a tricky month to conquer, so it’s not surprising if you feel a little gloomy at this time of year.
8 tips to beat Blue Monday
If you’re going through the January blues or feeling the effects of Blue Monday, here are 8 mood-boosting tips to get you through the day
Add light into your morning
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When you wake up on Blue Monday, get out of bed and open the curtains to get light into your room. Morning light is important in regulating the circadian rhythm which tells our bodies when to sleep, wake and eat. Sunlight helps your body release serotonin which has an amazing effect on mood and wellbeing. It’ll also make you feel more awake and ready to conquer the day. As the sun rises later during the winter mornings, you can add light into your bedroom with thebest wake up lightsthat wake you up naturally alongside the rising sun. If you want to know more about light therapy, take a look at thebest SAD lamps.
Schedule in self-care
For most of us, Monday is a work day so you’re probably going to be in the office or working from home on Blue Monday. Rather than overload yourself, take time at the beginning or end of your day to take care of yourself. If you feel you need a little help or comfort on Blue Monday, schedule in self-care activities that you enjoy, like reading a book, doing a face mask, making a good meal and taking a bath with thebest essential oils.
(Image credit: Fuu J / Unsplash)
(Image credit: Fuu J / Unsplash)
Get outdoors
Just like sunlight, getting outdoors has been found to help mental health problems, according toMind. Fresh air and being around nature improves mood, reduces feelings of anxiety and anger, helps you stay active and reduces loneliness. This Blue Monday, go for a walk or run outside to get a hit of light, fresh air and nature.
Exercise
Whether you head to the gym, go for a run or do a few squats in your living room, exercise has an incredible effect on your mood. It releases endorphins, helps you sleep better and is a great way to get out any frustrations or stress. Exercising regularly also keeps you physically and mentally fit and if you’re in need of some inspiration, check outfitness on T3for new workouts and health tips.
Wear something colourful
Eat hearty meals
Eating nourishing food or planning a meal you enjoy can boost your mood and give you something to look forward to at the end of the day. If you eat the right food, you can also set yourself up for a great night’s sleep and relax and wind down after a long day. For more details, take a look at these8 foods to eat for good sleep.
Reach out to family & friends
If you’re feeling down today or any other day, it’s good to have someone to talk to. Reach out to family and friends for a quick catch-up or support and remember to check in on them to see if they’re getting on well, too. January isn’t a particularly sociable month as people are trying to save money after Christmas so when you call your friends or family, plan something fun with them to look forward to.
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