19/01/2026
So TODAY 19th January, it's Blue Monday. 💙 It falls on the third Monday in January, which means you have almost made it through the first month of the year! This may be interpreted as a good thing especially if you are counting down the days until the end of Winter (like me), but for some people it can feel like hard work, with some people experiencing low mood, sluggishness or tiredness.
It may be due to a dip in natural serotonin (feel good hormone), while melatonin (sleep hormone) may increase. Our energy can drop at this time of year, especially as we are generally eating heavier meals, and experience cold damp weather, and if you have had a social marathon around the festive season. For women, hormonal changes make this dip feel even stronger, especially when sleep and mood are very sensitive to changes.
So how can we beat the Blues?
💙 Remember you are allowed to feel how you feel, but don't let it consume your day.
💙 Use positive affirmations....statements in the now as if it's already happened. Try...."I celebrate my uniqueness." "I strive for progress, not perfection".
💙Adopt a small gesture of kindness every day. Research indicates that we feel much better about everything after we have done a good deed. Everyone benefits from a mood lift!
💙Get moving! A lunchtime walk, get out of the office into a green space for 20 minutes. Join a new exercise group session indoors or outdoors, or try a new dance, yoga or pilates class.
💙Write down or journal on a list of activities that make you feel good and give you joy. Embrace them regularly. Start with the easiest ones first, if you find it difficult to find time for a new activity. This way you have your own Dopamine menu! Lols!
The STARTER could be make a warming cup of a healthy drink, like cacao or lion's mane mushroom coffee if you really want a healthy kick. Focus on small habits like adopting a slightly healthier diet or embrace morning light exposure.
The MAINS could be a day trip to the beach or forest with a friend. Immerse yourself in nature! Feel the energy absorbing into your body.
PUDDING or DESSERT could be... create a vision board for your home or travel plans. Using Pinterest is a great idea.
Specials could be...book a massage as a self-care treat (www.healthymindandsoul.co.uk) or start a local meet up, like a creative art group or book club. Checkout event apps for local events, NETHUB OR EVENTBRITE.
💙Accept that there are times when you need to push through to achieve something but learn to rest as well. Listen to your body! It will pay dividends.
P.s. I love wearing BLUE.....it certainly doesn't make me feel down. It sparks imagination, creativity and calm, all at the same time!
