Beat Those Monday Blues

It's the third Monday of January, otherwise known as the most depressing day of the year. As if Monday's weren't bad enough already - chuck a Monday in with the January blues, and you get today.

Blue Monday.

But why is Blue Monday pinned on the third Monday of the month, and how do we overcome it?

Blue Monday was a term coined in a press release by Cliff Arnell in 2005. The phrase took into account a non-scientific formula to explain why people's moods were generally so low at this point in January.

The formula took into account factors such as; weather conditions, debt vs salary, time since Christmas, low motivation levels and the overwhelming desire to take action on stresses, but not knowing where to start.

Arnell's 'Blue Monday' phrase was encouraged and publicised by British Holiday company, Sky Travel - because who needs to stay and fix their problems if they can fly away from them?

Whilst this is an option that many might prefer, like me - I tend to take the 'bury my head in the sand' approach to life's stresses; there are ways that we can fix our negative feelings towards today.

The first of which being to consider Arnell's statement about Blue Monday, made just last year. The Independent published his apology for making January more depressing, when in fact he had intended Blue Monday to 'encourage people to make bold life decisions.'

You see? Blue Monday was never even meant to be 'blue'. It was supposed to be a point of reflection; an inspiring day to face the problems that the new year brings, and to fix them. Not sit around and mope at the fact that January ultimately sucks.

However, if this isn't enough to help you fight your January blues, here's a little list of ways you can improve your mood today:

#1 Know That You're in Control

It is down to you as an individual to focus your belief system. If you believe today is going to suck, then you're more likely to see the negatives. Whilst January might be hard in terms of money and motivation, it is up to you entirely to believe you can fix the things that are bringing the blues. If you believe you can, then you will.

#2 Seek Natural Light

Oh wow this is an important one. Natural light increases your body's serotonin levels, giving you more positive endorphins to boost your mood. Even though January is mostly grey and gloomy, the amount of light that the sun produces, even from behind the clouds, is so much more beneficial to your body than the light you get from staying indoors.

#3 Exercise!

Everyone's favourite, I know. As I'm sure you're all aware, exercise does a number of good things for your body physically, but can also help you loads mentally. Being physical and keeping your body active can boost your mood far more than you'd think. If you don't fancy something high energy, then perhaps go for a fast paced, scenic walk. That way, your energy levels still rise, whilst you relax and take in the view; all the while getting your dose of vitamin D.

#4 Express Gratitude

Knowing what there is to be grateful for in your life is key in keeping your mind positive. It can be hard sometimes, when the world around you is feeling the January blues, so it's important to keep in tune with what is going well in your day-to-day. Returning the kindness that others give you or paying someone a compliment; these simple acts of kindness will boost your moral, as well as giving someone else a reason to smile.

#5 Listen to Music

Simple but effective. I know that when you're feeling sad, it's easy to listen to sad music and have a good cry. But, happy, lively music is a great way to get you smiling. I will surely be having a good little bop around the kitchen later while I cook, because music makes me happy. If you're stuck for songs, chuck on a good ol' Spotify playlist like Monday Motivation or Mood Booster, and you're bound to feel more positive.

Spotify Playlist, Click Image to Open

#6 Take Action

The long list of stressful things that have to be dealt with in the new year can be daunting, and therefore another reason to hide away. But, if you take action on the little day-to-day stresses, ticking of something small, one thing at a time, you can make that long list far more manageable for yourself.

#7 EAT

Yes, yes, yes. How could I put a list of ways to be happy without the mention of FOOD. If your mood is boosted by indulging in comfort food, perhaps eating four chocolate eclairs in one sitting (don't judge, we've all been there...) then by all means, go ahead. However, it's important to remember that whilst the sugary snacks are basically food's way of giving you a hug, the sugar won't do much good for you in the process. In fact your mood is more likely to worsen when the sugar wears off. Try replacing these cakey comfort snacks with a little bit of dark chocolate - that way, you appease the chocolate craving, without getting such a sugar crash afterwards. Natural sugars in bananas and nuts are also great for increasing energy and happiness levels too.

So there you have it, some simple reminders of how to improve your mood on such a blue January day. It can be tough, but it is down to us to make the most of our day, despite is supposedly negative label.

I hope you all find something to smile about today, and make Blue Monday a New Monday.