Since 2005 the dreaded day of “Blue Monday” has been in existence. Unsurprisingly it was named not because of scientific fact. But just due to a combination of; poor weather, heightened debt and an increase in holiday bookings. This day from that point was labelled ‘the most depressing day of the year’. However, this needn’t be the most depressing day of the year, and I am going to give a few key points of how to beat the Blue Monday blues.
You are far from alone when you’re feeling down on ‘Blue Monday’ this year it lands on January 20th. Firstly, its a Monday and who is ever happy about returning to work after a weekend of fun, and relaxation. But secondly it’s true; the weather is still cold and rubbish plus its still dark for a significant part of the day. I am delighted to say that it doesn’t need to be all doom and gloom and there is no reason why you can’t take control and beat the Blue Monday blues.
beat the Blue Monday blues by Capitalising on daylight
During this time of year it is difficult to feel perked up and happy due to the lack of sunlight we’re exposed to. We wake up it’s dark and leave work and its dark. In order to boost your vitamin D intake which in turn boosts mood and energy, take a walk on your break. Get out of the office while you grab your lunch. On a more positive note however, at least the shortest day of the year has passed and finally the daylight is being returned to us again just slowly.
Take aerobic exercise
We have all heard how taking exercise releases all those happy endorphins, well it is in fact true. So whether it is your new years resolution to get fit or whether you’re doing it for your general well being; doing some aerobic exercise just 30 mins a day can help boost your mood and make you feel calmer too. Personally, I also find exercising helps improve my sleep too. You can find more of my tips on better sleep here. But better sleep will also help you wake more energised.
Beat the blue Monday blues by Smiling
Smile! This is a very simple but very effective mood booster. Not only is a smile contagious try it, next time someone smiles at you try not to smile back. It is almost impossible. Smiling however has health benefits too, whether it is faked or real. Of course its a lot better to have a genuine smile but it is even shown to reduce blood pressure and release those feel good chemicals in the brain.
Be Grateful
Research shows that doing tasks practicing gratitude is related to increased happiness, and energy levels. There are some simple ways to put this into effect such as writing a list of all the things you are grateful for. Or even when you have just woken to think off all the things you have to be grateful for, this is certain to set you up well for the day. Starting the day off on a negative never helped anyone. Find more about practicing gratitude here.
Practise Altruism
Practicing Altruism (doing something for someone else with no gain) is shown to help improve your mood and give a feeling of accomplishment;plus it is just a nice and kind thing to do. Practicing altruism doesn’t have to involve money or even a lot of effort. It can be as simple as giving someone a compliment. Perhaps donating to charity whether it be money or unwanted items to a charity shop. Help an old person with their shopping. All of these things plus more help your mood and also help restore our faith in humanity.