This Monday, the 21st of January, is officially the most depressing day of the year. Named ‘Blue Monday’ it is thought to be the day most people are found to be miserable, more so than any other day of the year.
Although Blue Monday might sound like made up Twitter trend, it actually has some psychology behind it.
Over a decade ago, psychologist and life coach, Dr. Cliff Arnall claimed to be able to work out the most miserable day of the year using a pretty bizarre equation.
This formula takes into account variables such as weather conditions, debt, the end of Christmas, failed New Year’s resolutions and general low motivation levels.
Dr. Daniel, Clinical Director at London Doctors Clinic, lists the factors that contribute to our low mood in January: “The Christmas buzz and initial excitement of entering 2019 have been replaced by early mornings, grim weather and challenging resolutions, leaving some of us wondering how we can stay productive and positive.”
The day is not based on any science, no. It is an accumulation of different external factors, which are very common in January.
Chances are, you’ve probably heard your parents say this a fair few times. It seems obvious and pretty boring but there’s nothing more cleansing for the mind than a quick tidy. If your environment is messy and chaotic, it’s only going to add to any stress you’re currently feeling. So, pick up those clothes, put away the dishes and have a quick hoover. We guarantee you’ll feel better for it!
Increasing your exposure to sunlight may be the most effective and simple way to give your mood a makeover. Those sun rays bring some vital vitamin D into our lives and they also increase the production of serotonin and endorphins (our body’s feel-good chemicals).
Make the most of the light you do have by adding large mirrors to your room which will help reflect light around the space. Alternatively, you can add shiny homeware items to your room like a mirrored table to help reflect light.
If you’re really committed to increasing your homes natural light you can paint your walls a lighter colour or even add larger windows.
Good mood lighting is the perfect way to make any space feel warm and cosy. At the end of a long day, it’s important to create a calm environment in which you can unwind and decompress.
Wave goodbye to bright ceiling lights and welcome low-level lighting alternatives into your home. Fill your house with lamps, floor lights, fairy lights, and candles – all of which will help to create a cosy atmosphere.
A big one for 2019! Minimising electronics from the bedroom can aid restful sleep which is essential for a happy, healthy mindset. If you have a television in the bedroom try and trade it for a book stand and fill it with your favourite reads.
This will eliminate the temptation to turn on the TV before bed and will encourage you to engage in a more productive bedtime ritual.
Let’s turn this day around and make it a great one! Instruct with us this February and you will receive a FREE Amazon Echo. Take a look here for more information.
