This past Monday was Blue Monday. In case you’re unfamiliar with what exactly Blue Monday is, it is referred to as, essentially, the most depressing day of the year.
I didn’t notice myself feeling more depressed than I normally would on this year’s Blue Monday date, but I thought I would dedicate a post to sharing some pick-me-ups with all of you in case anyone was seriously feeling the effects of 2022’s Blue Monday. These ideas are my own, but feel free to contribute in the comments if I have forgotten a pick-me-up you swear by.
- Go for a walk. As basic and cliche as it might sound, physical activity and exercise are some of the most effective ways to boost serotonin in the body, and walking is a form of exercise that a lot of us are able to engage in. You don’t have to be a body builder to go for a stroll down a local trail.
- Do some cooking or baking. I tend to feel more productive after I’ve created a little culinary something, and it’s hard to be down while eating dessert(s).
- Grab a journal and start writing down your thoughts. Better yet, start a daily gratitude journal and record things in your life you are thankful for, no matter how big or small.
- If possible, spend some time with animals. They’re some of the most therapeutic things in this thing we refer to as life, and cuddling with critters is bound to boost your mood.
- Consider practicing meditation and/or yoga. Numerous studies have been conducted that emphasize the benefits for the body and mind from both of these forms of wellness.
These are just a few ideas that may have the potential to bring your spirits up, and I hope they can be of use to someone.