While January can be an exciting time with resolutions, opportunities to better yourself & life and a chance to embark on a new chapter, for some, it can feel overwhelming. You might have heard of Blue Monday: commonly used to reference the third Monday of January (17th this year) and a day where typically, we are feeling our gloomiest. This can be due to the winter weather taking its toll, wavering resolutions or feelings of post-Christmas despondency still looming.
It’s totally normal if this is how you’re feeling but don’t judge yourself for it. Instead, remember how strong you are, shift your focus and try one of the below pick me ups. Including some of my favourites, these tried and tested activities are sure to get you out of a January Blues funk and into a better headspace…
- Set smaller tasks for yourself
One of the first steps to feeling better in ourselves is breaking down the things that are making us feel overwhelmed. Maybe it’s that you set yourself an overachieving New Year’s resolution and now you’re beating yourself up for finding it harder than you thought – don’t worry, I’ve been there too! Instead of judging yourself, break the goal down into smaller, more realistic and achievable steps that you can commit to each day. Also, celebrate your wins. However small you might think they are, once you start writing these down, you’ll be so proud of yourself when you look back at how far you’ve come.
- Treat yourself
Put a smile on your own face. You know yourself better than anyone and have the power to make yourself feel better at any given moment. If flowers are your thing, order some to your house so when they arrive in the post, you feel extra special. Or if you want to release some extra endorphins, buy yourself that (maybe more expensive) item that you’ve wanted for a while. It’s not all about materialistic things though. Ask yourself, when was the last time you treated your mind? A trip to the spa is one of the best ways to reset the mind and I love booking onto a Balinese massage with hot stones on my downer days. Always picks me back up!
- Reconnect with friends and family
The oldest (and trustiest) trick in the book. Hanging out with your friends and family will always make you feel better, even if it’s just a slight boost. Give yourself something to feel excited about, reminisce on old memories, create new ones, whatever you do, I’m sure it’ll add some joy to your day.
- Practice some mindfulness
While meditation is a great way to practice mindfulness, this isn’t the only way to maintain a clear head. I love walking, taking time away from the screen or just dancing and letting my body move in the way it wants to. Whatever gets you in the zone! This step usually requires minimal effort and time but has the most effective, long-lasting results so if you choose to do just do one of these things, let this be it.
- Wear something colourful
We all know that colour is a natural mood booster. During the past couple of years, in and out of lockdowns, we’ve all been living in a slight sensory deficit as we’ve been exposed to the same patterns and colours inside our homes. Well now’s the time to vamp up your wardrobe and wear the brightest thing you have! Not only will this reflect your wavelength and help you to appear more radiant, healthy and happy, it will bring all of those around you up too.
- Get outside
I know this one can feel difficult to achieve as the days are both darker and colder, but the outdoors is still our friend! Getting out in nature has been proven to give you more energy, improve blood circulation, strengthen immunity and help focus levels. This one is especially important for anyone who is still working from home – don’t forget, you need the fresh air.
I hope this supports you through this Blue Monday. Until next time,
Kate x