So apparently, every third Monday in January is “Blue Monday” — supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Why? Because by now, our New Year’s resolutions have collapsed, the credit card bills have arrived, and it’s still winter... everywhere.
The whole idea wasn’t dreamt up by some doom-obsessed scientist, but by a UK travel company in 2005 trying to sell vacations. A psychologist even came up with a “formula” for sadness — which turned out to be more PR stunt than science.
Still, there’s truth in the winter blues. Short days, grey skies, post-holiday nostalgia — it all adds up. Psychologists say it’s normal to feel flat after the holidays; we go from twinkly lights and sugar cookies to cold commutes and self-improvement pressure. No wonder our serotonin’s snoozing.
So what helps? Get outside, even if it’s just a quick daylight walk. Move your body — reluctant yoga counts. Eat something green (not a gumdrop). Call your people. Pick one small healthy habit and stick with it.
The year’s just started — be kind to yourself.
Oh, and if you still feel blue? Remember: it’s a Monday. We all do.
More about "Blue Monday," and how to get yourself right, can be found at OpenUp.com
Photo by Adrian Swancar on Unsplash