Smiling, sex, & chocolate… 11 ways to beat the Blue Monday blues on the most depressing day of the year
TODAY is Blue Monday — the most depressing day of the year.
It is when a combination of cold weather, the post-Christmas comedown, piling debt and growing guilt over failed New Year’s resolutions hits us all where it hurts.
But don’t let the blues beat you, there are plenty of clever ways you can trick your brain into being happy.
From morning sex to wearing bright colours, we reveal how to beat the blues . . .
SMILE AT STRANGERS
Not only will you make someone’s day but you’ll feel better too!
Experts believe we should smile for at least 20 to 40 minutes a day to ward off depression.
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When we smile our brain releases endorphins and other natural painkillers such as serotonin.
These hormones make us feel good and help us relax.
GIVE COMPLIMENTS
Contrary to common belief, you don’t have to be on the receiving end of a complement for it to feel good.
Studies have shown that giving compliments — and seeing the other person’s reaction — can increase levels of oxytocin, also known as the ‘love hormone’.
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MORNING SEX
Start your day on a high note with a dose of passion that will have you skipping into the office.
Morning nookie increases the production of antibodies, which are vital for our immune system and fighting off colds, studies show.
Sex also helps reduce the hormone cortisol, making us feel less stressed and putting us in a positive mood for the day.
COLD SHOWER
Cold water therapy has become very trendy among celebrities.
Enduring a freezing blast for up to five minutes can help relieve symptoms of depression, research shows.
Cold showers can work as a kind of gentle electroshock therapy, as the cold water sends many electrical impulses to your brain.
POWER POSE
It may sound a bit cringey but striking a confident pose in front of the mirror can lift your mood and boost your confidence.
Try The Wonder Woman or Super Hero pose to get started.
Stand tall, with your feet shoulder-width apart, place your hands on your hips, and lift your chin slightly.
Channel your inner hero, ready to conquer any challenge that comes your way.
BRIGHT COLOURS
You are what you wear.
Vibrant, warm colours (reds, oranges, yellows) can stimulate energy and happiness, studies show.
Cool, subdued colours (blues, greens, purples) are soothing and calming.
So ditch the grey and black and opt for something colourful instead.
POSITIVE JOUNAL
Create a hit-list of positivity by jotting down things you are grateful for and things you want to change.
Journaling has many cathartic benefits as it shifts your mood and sense of well-being, which is why it is often recommended by therapists.
Document your aspirations, set goals and celebrate each victory as you carve your path to success.
EAT CHOCOLATE
Beat the blues one bite at a time with this ultimate mood elevator.
Not only does the choccie taste delicious but it’s actually good for us too.
Opt for dark chocolate, as it is packed with antioxidants which help release endorphins in the brain, decreasing stress and pain levels.
GET OUTSIDE
Depression is linked to low levels of vitamin D, so spending more time outside will boost your serotonin levels and recharge your energy.
Physical exercise combined with sunlight can improve negative moods, ward off depression and improve self-esteem.
Try to walk for 20 to -30 minutes at a time.
POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS
It may sound a bit woo-woo but repeating affirmations such as “today is a great day” and “I am more than enough” can work wonders, research has concluded.
Positive thoughts can lead to action and success.
Repeat your affirmations several times a day, especially when you find yourself slipping into negative self-talk or behaviour.
DIGITAL DETOX
Spending hours scrolling through social media can negatively impact self-esteem, research shows.
By spending just one day away from screens and immersing yourself in nature has proved to increase happiness and self-worth.
What’s more, experts believe limited social media use can boost productivity and improve sleep.
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lIf you are struggling with feelings of depression over a long period you should speak to your doctor, or a trusted family member or friend.
- If you are struggling with feelings of depression over a long period, you should speak to your doctor, a trusted family member or friend. Samaritans can be contacted on 116 123.