01/19/2026
Mourning Reflection…
(Thoughts on Blue Monday)
You may have heard that today (the 3rd Monday in January) is often referred to as “Blue Monday.” Did you know that this term originally became widespread as a marketing strategy intended to encourage people to plan a vacation in January? (hello capitalism)!
Scientifically, it is not actually true that it is the most depressing day of the year. What we do know however, is that in this area of the world, when days are shorter, darker, and colder, it’s quite common to notice a shift in mood and motivation.
Many of us experience what’s more commonly known as the “winter blues,” at this time of year. In fact, as many as 15% of people experience the winter blues in Canada. (separate from a clinical diagnosis of SAD, or seasonal affective disorder).
In addition to environmental factors, many of us feel pressures related to post-holiday debt, exhaustion, and often experience a plunge into isolation. Given the state of the world, the political violence and instability we are witnessing, it might naturally feel extra weighty.
When we take into consideration that we’re also grieving the loss of someone or something integral to our lives as this new year unfolds, it’s no surprise that it can feel quite overwhelming and heavy to navigate these days.
The usefulness, in my mind, in drawing attention to “Blue Monday” is to consider that it provides us with an opportunity, a gentle prompt, to check in with ourselves. How are we (really) doing? How are we feeling? What might we consider doing to bring some ease—emotionally and physically—to our days.
Take some time today if you can to consider what you might need and who you might call upon to help support you through the weeks ahead. This will look different for each of us, so be careful to resist the urge to compare with others and what they’re doing. Honour your own individual needs and experiment to find what works best for you.
Maybe it’s making sure your favourite tea is on your grocery list, perhaps it’s a short 15-minute walk around the block, maybe it’s a visit to the library, a phone call with a friend, a quiet afternoon working on a puzzle, a favourite meal. It can be anything that brings a little joy and respite—even briefly—to nurture your body, mind, and spirit. Remember to be patient, and hold compassion for yourself along the way.
Worth a try, right? 😊
I’m thinking of you today. I’m always trying to find ways that work for me, and I’m always rooting for you, too!!
~ Cheryl 💙
Image: ©️CWituik
