Blue Monday: 3 things to remember

I should probably start with Happy New Year!… is that still relevant? I know, I haven’t been around for a while – same reasons.

Today is Blue Monday. If you aren’t sure what that means, it’s basically said to be the most depressing day of the year. I don’t know if that is still relevant this year or if every day feels like Blue Monday to you. Maybe you have found contentment through out this lock down?

Anyway, whether it’s Blue Monday or just life right now that is getting you down, I’m here for you. Here are some things I would like for you to remember;

1. Emotions/ Feelings are fluid: Just because right this second you might feel one way, it doesn’t mean it can’t change. Emotions can change pretty fast actually, it just takes practice (and sometimes medication) to let them.

The best thing to do is feel them but try not to dwell on them or drag them forward with you. Yes, I know how tough that is to do. I am practicing it too. Finding a quiet spot to breathe through the tougher emotions really helps me.

2. Get some sleep: I don’t know about you, but for me getting a nights sleep or not makes all of the difference to my mood.

My top tips for good sleep, even when anxiety is playing up are; have a warm non-caffeine drink before bed (I love ovaltine), write down any recurring thoughts about things to do the next day so you know you can go to sleep without your brain losing them, listen to something to help you fall asleep, make sure your bed is as comfortable as possible.

To add that, I like to listen to Calm or a soothing book on Audible. I find listening to a story easier than meditating but it often has the same effect for me. It removes all the excess thoughts which makes it easier for me to drop off to sleep.

Also, if you have a weighted blanket – use it. I got one for Christmas and am obsessed. I like night time snuggles but G snores like no ones business so this does the trick. It also helps my permanently frozen feet and restless leg syndrome.

3. Stop looking at what everyone else is doing: It’s really unhelpful to look at at everyone else’s highlight reels when you aren’t experiencing a highlight moment yourself. While social media has got a lot more honest, it is still a tool to show your best self in what ever way you perceive that to be.

It’s better to put down the social media and get in touch with someone you know you can be real with. At least until you feel a bit better in yourself.

So, those are my top 3 tips on what I try to do to shift my mood.

The main thing to know is always that it WILL change.

Just hang in there, you’ve got this.