Beyond Blue Monday: How Self-Care Can Help You Prevent Burnout and Improve Your Mood All Year Round

January is the month when most people start to feel the post-holiday blues. It's the time when the excitement and joy of the holiday season have dissipated, the weather is cold and gray, and credit card bills from holiday spending start to come in. All of these factors can contribute to feelings of sadness, depression, and despair. One day in particular, January 16th, has been dubbed Blue Monday - the most depressing day of the year.

But what is Blue Monday and why is it called that? The term Blue Monday was coined by a British psychologist in 2005 to describe the most depressing day of the year. It is calculated based on a combination of factors such as weather, debt level, time since Christmas, and the need to take action on failed New Year's resolutions.

The reasons why January can be such a difficult month for many people are multifaceted. The holiday season is over, and people are returning to their daily routine, which can be a source of stress. The dark and gloomy weather can also contribute to feelings of sadness and despair. Furthermore, the credit card bills from holiday spending start to come in, adding financial stress to the mix. All of these factors can contribute to feelings of sadness and despair.

But just because January 16th is Blue Monday, it doesn't mean that you have to be blue too. There are several things you can do to move through these feelings and improve your mood. One of the best ways is to stay active and get outside as much as possible. Even a short walk around the block can help to boost your mood and get some fresh air. Additionally, staying connected with loved ones and seeking support can help to alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Another way to move through these feelings is by incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine. Self-care is the practice of taking time for yourself to relax, unwind and restore balance to your mind and body. This can help to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. Some self-care products that can help include empowering books, bath soaks or shower steamers to wind down, and magnesium spray for stress & sleep support. Incorporating a gratitude journal or affirmation decks can also help shift your mindset and focus on the positive aspects of life. Using these products can make a big difference in how you feel and can be a powerful tool in preventing burnout and depression.

Blue Monday is a term used to describe the most depressing day of the year, but it doesn't have to be that way. By staying active, connecting with loved ones, seeking support, and incorporating self-care practices and products, you can move through these feelings and improve your mood. Remember, it's about taking small steps to take care of yourself, and it's always worth it.