Blue Monday is considered to be the most depressing day of the year. Maybe you’ve already encountered a lot of posts and articles about it, claiming the power of Blue Monday, citing it as some ubiquitous day of suffering. But, is it even real? Not so much.
The History of Blue Monday
Blue Monday was originally announced in 2005 in a press release by the company called Sky Travel. In the release, the company claimed that it was able to calculate the most depressing day of the year (roughly the third Monday in January) using a number of factors including “time since failing New Year’s resolutions”, the weather, inability to pay debt due to the holidays, etc. With this declaration, the press release made Blue Monday the unofficial saddest day of the year. It’s…well, just nonsense.
Since its creation many have come to understand the “science” as nothing more than pseudoscience and there’s some thought that the day was contrived to help sell travel tickets and experiences.
What’s the truth?
Honestly, I don’t know if there is some sophisticated formula that makes one day worse than the other. Of course, many of us have our Monday blues as we face each new week. But, it’s unlikely that the third Monday is January is substantially any different than all the other Mondays on the calendar.
That being said if you are struggling with some Monday blues, here are some things to consider to switch up the energy of the day:
Move Your Body
Most Americans spend way too much time sitting (self included). Something as simple as a quick walk around the block (or around your office building) can do wonders for your emotional health. It might even help enliven you and help you feel more energized. No, seriously! As little as a brisk 10 minute walk can give you a much-needed energy boost and help lift your mood. Taking a small break to move can change the trajectory of the rest of your day.
Hydrate
Taking care of your physical health is a great way to beat the Monday blues. Take in your caffeine by all means, but don’t neglect that your body also just needs plain water. Drinks like coffee and tea are great but they can also be natural diuretics, making you urinate a lot – and potentially feeling de-hydrated. Hydration is one key to keep from feeling sluggish and heavy. Opt for room temperature or fruit water to get an even better boost.
Take Some Breaks & Reconnect
Often times what makes Mondays tough is our desire to plow through work and try to start the week off “right”. Wanting to push through tasks on your to do list is noble (and can be helpful), but it might also lead you to ignore your need for appropriate breaks from work. Be mindful about taking a few 10-15 minute breaks every couple of hours so that you don’t get bogged down in the same place, starting at a screen for hours and hours on end.
Express Yourself
How often have you told yourself to “just get over it” when you’re in a funk? I think a lot of us are guilty of that one. If you’re having a particularly difficult Monday (or any other day) take out a little bit of time to express yourself. Do some reflective journaling. Check in with your therapist. Text or schedule some time to meet up with a friend. A supportive ear is a powerful antidote for so much.
While it’s hard to imagine that any one Monday can be designated as the saddest day of the year, the most important thing to keep in mind is to look out for your mental health and practice those wellness practices just as you would any other day of the year.
Author: Jor-El
Jor-El is Co-founder of Viva Wellness and a foodie and film buff. He most often writes about mental health, relationships, food and mindfulness. When he’s not busy working, he typically can be found lounging or walking around NYC with his pup Nomi.
