The 20th January is known as Blue Monday, the most depressing day of the year. We get it – the post-holiday slump has set in, we’re all fully back to work now and the time between our last pay-check and January one seems so far away.
But January doesn’t have to feel so bleak! It is also a time for fresh beginnings and renewed energy. For some, it’s a chance to feel revitalized and ready to take on the year ahead!
If you are feeling the Monday Blues or the mid January slump, here’s our guide on how to brighten your mood this Blue Monday… both practical tips you can implement today and beyond, along with a selection of uplifting products you’ll love.
How to Brighten Your Mood This Blue Monday
Connect with Others
Feeling down? Call a friend or plan a quick coffee break with someone who lifts your spirits. Social connections can be a powerful antidote for the Monday Blues. Even a text message to check in with someone can give you a boost.
Spend some time in Nature
A short stroll in a green space can help to reduce stress and enhance your mood. Do you have a local park near you – pop over during your lunch break and take a moment to breathe and reset.
Make Time to Move
Any movement, even a brisk 10-minute walk can help relieve stress and release feel-good hormones. You could even try the 31-day Pilates challenge from Olivia Rose Pilates. Gentle stretches and yoga are also great options. New to exercise? The Couch to 5k App is a great place to start to gently increase your endurance.
Create Space for Rest and Reflection
“Something that I am focusing on this winter is actually wintering. Rather than seeing winter as a negative time of year, see it through a different lens. Wintering is the art of slowing down—on purpose. It’s about leaning into life’s pauses instead of fighting them. We need to conscious of saving energy, chilling out, and quietly preparing for their next season of growth.
Wintering used to mean survival—stocking up food, chopping firewood, and trying not to freeze. Today, wintering is less about survival and more about sanity. It’s about creating space for rest and reflection during life’s naturally slower periods. The modern version of wintering is like a spa day for your soul,” Says Alison Blackler, mind coach, author and speaker 2minds.
Practice Aromatherapy
Scent can directly influence the brain’s emotional centres so engage in pleasant scents to help promote relaxation and happiness. Citrus and floral scents are great to uplift you, classic relaxing scents include lavender and chamomile. Light up your favourite candle or diffuser and transform your space
Listen to Something Uplifting
Play your favourite upbeat songs can help to improve your mood or perhaps put on an inspiring podcast. Sound is a powerful tool for setting the tone of your day.
Eat Well
Holiday food is often overindulgent and rich, which can leave you feeling sluggish and not at your best. Focus on nourishing foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains to help you feel energised and balanced. Make sure to hydrate too – dehydration can lower your energy levels and affect your mood.
Breath of Fire
“Breath of Fire is a rapid, rhythmic breathing pattern that energizes the body, cleanses the lungs, and calms the mind. It helps to combat fatigue and mental fog.
How to do it:
- Sit in a comfortable position with a straight spine.
- Inhale and exhale quickly through the nose, with an emphasis on exhaling (the inhale will be passive).
- Keep the breath even and controlled, but allow the abdomen to pump in and out with each breath.
- Start with 30 seconds and gradually build up to 3-5 x 30 second rounds.”
Says Alex da Silva from Silva Wellness, Breathwork and Wellness Practitioner.
Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is good for you and can help you shift your mindset towards positivity.
Write down three things you’re grateful for. This simple practice can shift your focus from what’s wrong to what’s going well in your life, helping to lift your mood.
Here are some feel-good products you’ll love
Blue Monday doesn’t have to be the most depressing day of the year. With these mood-boosting tips and a few intentional changes, you can reclaim your day and set the tone for a positive year ahead.
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