5 tips to cure Blue Monday

Blue Monday is a name given to a day in January, typically the third Monday of the month, which is claimed to be the most depressing day of the year. In 2020 Blue Monday falls today, on Monday 20th of January.

Blue Monday arrives as result of a combination of cold weather, the financial strain of covering the cost of Christmas and the New Years optimistic talk about a ‘fresh new start’ has already faded. As if that wasn’t enough – a lot of us are still struggling with a winter illness, such as the flu or a never-ending cold.

Fret not! First of all, please take some comfort in knowing that you are not alone. And to help, we’ve gathered a few ideas on how to cure Blue Monday.

Quick fixes such as retail therapy, buckets of ice cream, a bottle of red or binge watching of your favourite Netflix show have unfortunately not made it to our list of things to help – as this would only extend the problem to Tuesday… Nevertheless and hopefully not too boring;

How to cure dreary January days in five simple steps!

1.Eat healthy, wholesome food

When it’s cold outside, treat yourself to a healthy homemade vegetable stew or soup. Root vegetables are not only reasonable but in season as well. Together with some stock, carrots, parsnips, potatoes and the likes will make a comforting, hearty winter warmer to brighten up any gloomy January day. Add meat, lentils, beans or and pear barley. Top with flat parsley and serve with garlic bread.

2. Get rid of the Winter cold

In short you will have to rest, drink fluids and keep the air around you moist. Instead of stressing around, make yourself comfortable at home with a good book. Sip on a warm drink, like clear broth or warm lemon water with honey that may help sooth and loosen congestion. Other natural remedies that are believed to help fight a cold includes garlic and apple cider vinegar. In Norway it’s fish oil that’s most use to boost the immune-system. Last but not least, ensure that your bedroom has plenty of fresh air to help you get a good nights sleep to get rid of the cold.

3. Make someone else happy

The happiest people are ones who make a positive impact on others lives. Call a relative or a friend who you think would appreciate it. Take an interest in their life and show that you care. Or why not try a small yet impactful random act of kindness?

See 50 kindness ideas at randomactsofkindness.org

4. Pamper yourself with a ‘home spa’

Take a destressing bath, with a sprinkle of mineral and oil rich bath salt. Top tips is to have it warm rather than hot, as hot water is known to make our skin dry and itchy. Dry skin is common during winter anyway, but easy to treat; after a bath or shower while your skin is still moist, apply moisturising lotion. Contrary to popular belief, moisturising lotions and creams aren’t absorbed by the skin. Instead, they act as a sealant to stop the skin’s natural moisture evaporating away.

5. Sleep

Sleep reduces stress, reduces risk of depression and it reduces inflammation. Furthermore, it helps your body recover and fight illness. It also makes you more alert, improves your memory and it may help loose weight. A good night’s sleep consists of 5-6 complete 90 minute sleep cycles for the average adult. If you want to wake up feeling refreshed at 7am, the optimal time to go to bed is somewhere between 10pm and 11pm.

Important: Always seek the advice of your gp or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.

Photo: Visit Finland, a possible number 6 to our list, plan your next holiday…

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