Years ago a scientist apparently published an article proposing that the Third Monday of January was the “most depressing day of the year” in otherwords “Blue Monday”. He came to this conclusion based on the number of days past the Christmas Holiday and the uplift of New Year and for many in 21 days many of us have started slacking on those New Years resolutions… thus leaving us feeling a bit down.
Call it what you will, many of us do experience a let down after the Holidays, the festivities the cards and phone calls and now we are left in a bleakness of cold weather and record snow which is currently gripping many parts of the USA from the Midwest to New England.
I am feeling it today as well- in between travels, not sure how many places I can afford to go to, and in general a bit down.
How can we combat these feelings? What are ways to move the blue… and leave the gloom? For those that live in places like the Midwest, the plains states and cold places often a short trip to a warm place full of sunshine is needed. We always can’t afford these destinations but signing up for Travelzoo, or glancing thru Groupon maybe we can find an affordable escape!
Thinking about Travel can cause a bit of uptick in the mouth, putting our mind to work researching or watching YouTube videos about a place or a Scenic Experience Tour may work! Think about your favorite activities there are many groups and tours now geared to those interests. Knitting with Friends maybe in a beautiful rustic farm in New England, walking the trails in New Hampshire listening to the variety of waterfalls, falling leaves or smells of the season or joining other photographers searching for traces of Route 66, there are travels, tours and experiences for everyone!
Small bites- maybe we just can’t commit to something just yet, but maybe choosing someone you haven’t heard from in awhile (forget the Christmas card) pick up the phone and call! Or if calling isn’t your style reach out via email, or get some bright colored papers, colored pens and create a unique letter or card. Remember the time BEFORE the internet when you actually wrote a letter or made something with colored paper?
Something old- what brings you joy? Love food but feeling guilty about the weight you gained? Go back to the previous paragraph- small bites, try to reach your goal in small steps, reduce your portions, take out something and replace it with something else, or find a buddy to help you be accountable. Check in with each other- there are so many ways to rejoice in small steps or borrowing an idea that worked for someone else! If you have always loved Macaroni and Cheese- you can a way to cook it with different ingredients – revisit those things that brought you joy!
Feeling light in your wallet after all the festivities then look for ways to bring yourself joy without breaking the bank! Often restaurants have happy hour menus, or days where they run specials, sign up with your email for points programs like Mimi’s restaurants, Starbucks, Baskin Robbins and others. Clean out your closets- sites like Ebay and Poshmark just to name a few will help you make a few bucks on things or clothes you aren’t wearing anymore!
Check out your credit cards- The Points Guy has a great website for sharing good deals – zero percent cards, best cards for accruing miles and more!
Krazy Coupon Lady has a great site with deals everyday from household items, groceries and gifts! Finding ways to save money can often lift your spirits!
Exercise- even in the dead of winter it is good to do something to move about- moving the body is healthy and “your brain releases endorphins, adrenaline, serotonin and dopamine” a powerful combination! If you can get to a mall- walk laps- don’t stop just keep moving- clean your house- take the stairs several times or find some music and use that treadmill!
My last tip which I think can be hard for some- is take a break from Social Media- I think looking at “everyone else” traveling, smiling and laughing it up on sites like Facebook can overall have a negative effect! We automatically feel less,,, like we have less money, can’t buy that expensive suit, fancy turntable or take that exotic beach vacation. Turn off all that noise… plug into your favorite music, dance a little even if it’s just you, go check out a new book, or better yet – pick up a pen start writing or creating on your own!
Listen to your instincts- reach out and don’t feel like this is how you have to feel all of the time. There is a 24 Hour Hotline if you need to reach out 1-800-273-TALK (8255) and
https://www.crisistextline.org/textline
there are many resources if you feel like your Blue Monday isn’t just a temporary place–
Be sure to listen to those you know!
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