Today is ‘Blue Monday’, allegedly the most depressing day of the year, with Christmas nothing more than the pineless, lonely remains of a tree in the garden, credit card bills rolling in and payday is still days away for some.
Add to that, the cold dark mornings and the uncontrollable urge to break those New Year resolutions and crack into the biscuit tin, it’s certainly feeling pretty gloomy.
But don’t despair and don’t let Blue Monday beat you. Simply follow these simple tips to boost your mood and keep you feeling healthy and happy: It’s all in the mind.
Positivity
Firstly, be positive. If everyone is screaming at us that today is going to be the most depressing day of the year, it’s no surprise when everyone starts to believe it. Write a list of three good things about today and stick them on your desk at work or on your fridge – this could be anything from a phone call with a friend to preparing your favourite food for dinner. The small things will remind you that it’s not all doom and gloom.
Exercise
It might be the last thing that you feel like doing, but exercise is a great way to boost your serotonin levels – that is your ‘feel-good’ hormones. Exercise not only helps the body but also clears the mind. You don’t have to go for a 10-mile run either, try walking to work, half an hour in the gym or maybe a quick game of 5-a-side football.
Eat Healthily
Eating well has a huge impact on your mood and physical health. Avoid fattening, starchy foods, as they will only make you feel lethargic and bloated. Tuck into some fresh fruit, such as bananas which are full of potassium and natural sugars that will give you plenty of energy. For lunch or dinner perhaps try a light, zingy salad that will satisfy your appetite and your taste buds.
Hydrate Yourself
You may feel like hooking yourself up to an intravenous drip of caffeine. However, avoid the temptation and make sure you drink plenty of water. That way you’ll stay hydrated and feel much more alert.
Laugh
It’s an old adage, but laughter can be the best medicine. We all know how great a good laugh can make you feel, so make the effort to crack a joke or two with your work colleagues, friends and loved ones or listen to your favourite comedy podcast or radio show.
Make Plans
It doesn’t have to cost money, just plan something to look forward to. This could be a visit to friends in a few weeks’ time, a day trip or if you do have a little bit of cash hidden away somewhere, why not put down a deposit on that holiday?
Try Something New
Think of something fun or different to do today. You might be eating beans on toast tonight, but why not eat it at the table with your partner, housemate or family, bring out your best plates, light a few candles and tuck in as you have a proper chat about your days. Alternatively, seek out free activities such as an exhibition at an art gallery or museum? Or just dig out your favourite films, curl up on the sofa and have a movie night.
Treat Yourself
On a day like today, it’s important to give yourself a bit of me-time, so why not book a massage or other alternative therapy? Did you know that with a Medicash plan, whether it’s a personal plan or a corporate plan, you can claim cashback on certain alternative therapies, including Reiki, Indian head massage, and hypnotherapy? Contact us if you want to find out more.
Let us know how you’re beating Blue Monday by tweeting us @Medicash. If you’re finding that Blue Monday turns in to Blue Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday and you feel that you might need a bit more than just a pick-me-up, make sure you seek help, talk to your doctor.
Medicash can provide customers with 24/7 counselling on a wide range of stress-related issues including debt, redundancy, bereavement and work-life balance, to find out more contact us.