{"id":4668,"date":"2023-01-16T11:30:19","date_gmt":"2023-01-16T11:30:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/crosscountiestraining.co.uk\/?p=4668"},"modified":"2023-01-16T11:30:19","modified_gmt":"2023-01-16T11:30:19","slug":"blue-monday-8-ways-to-beat-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/creativeideasfactory.co.uk\/cross\/blue-monday-8-ways-to-beat-it\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Ways To Beat Blue Monday"},"content":{"rendered":"

Is Blue Monday a Myth?<\/h3>\n

Blue Monday is indeed a myth which was originally created as a PR stunt to sell holidays in January. Whilst there is no science to back up that the third Monday in January is the most depressing day of the year, we have to agree it is a bit gloomy.\u00a0 The day is filled with controversy for being the saddest day of the year with people feeling the strain of post-Christmas credit card bills, bleak weather and thinking of breaking our new year\u2019s resolutions.<\/p>\n

However, perhaps Blue Monday is a day for some self-reflection and increased awareness around Mental Health issues.\u00a0 In fact, maybe we can make the 16th<\/sup> of January 2023 a day for self-care and some positivity with some tips that we wanted to share on how to boost your spirits and beat Blue Monday!<\/p>\n

8 ways to cope with Blue Monday<\/h3>\n

1.\u00a0\u00a0 Have something to look forward to<\/h3>\n

Research shows that having something to look forward to improves your mood and makes you more hopeful.\u00a0 Beating Blue Monday could include things like planning your next holiday, having a self-care day or going to the cinema with friends.\u00a0\u00a0 Planning for something in your future can serve as a good talking point and in the dead of winter give you something exciting to look forward to.\u00a0 Not only that but it will help to improve your serotonin levels and ease anxiety and depression.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0\u00a0 Get moving<\/strong><\/h3>\n

In mid-January, you will probably not be in the mood to exercise and may even be considering breaking your New Year\u2019s resolutions as Blue Monday approaches.\u00a0 However, physical activity is a very good way to lift your mood and outdoor exercise has been proven to be an effective anti-depressant and will help improve your Mental Health.\u00a0 So by exercising you can help to improve your physical and mental well-being.<\/p>\n

This doesn\u2019t mean you have to join a gym; you could go on walks with friends or colleagues and you could maybe do some yoga classes or practise mindfulness exercises at home.<\/p>\n

3. Healthy eating <\/strong><\/h3>\n

After all the festive season chocolate eating, comfort carbohydrates and drinking alcohol, it might be time to look at a balanced healthy diet to help reduce your anxiety levels.\u00a0 A good diet is not only beneficial for your physical health but your Mental Health too and won’t leave you feeling down on Blue Monday.<\/p>\n

So try and include some fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fatty oils such as omega 3 and 6. Try to avoid stimulants such as sugar, caffeine and alcohol.\u00a0 You will not only feel better after eating a healthy diet, but remember a good night\u2019s sleep is also important for your Mental Health too.<\/p>\n

4. Start a hobby<\/strong><\/h3>\n

By starting a creative activity like a hobby, it can help you to switch off from the daily pressures of life and give you an opportunity to turn negative thoughts into positive feelings.\u00a0 For example, joining an art class or taking a photographic course can help you switch off from the day-to-day pressures and will also help you to socialise and mix with other people.\u00a0 Whatever you decide to do, it will be good for your Mental Health and happiness to start something new and creative.<\/p>\n

5. Get some training<\/strong><\/h3>\n

With Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.) becoming more prevalent after the holidays, returning to work and studies can leave you feeling demotivated and sluggish.\u00a0 It is a good idea to use the 16th<\/sup> of January as a day to increase your awareness of Mental Health issues and look at the self-care programs which your work offers.<\/p>\n

If you are looking for Mental Health training for your business Cross Counties Training can assist with the following courses:<\/p>\n