3 Ways To Beat Blue Monday and The January Blues

The third Monday in January is known as ‘Blue Monday’ and is allegedly the saddest day of the year. It’s the time of the year when long nights and bad weather appear, the festive period is over, New Year resolutions may have been broken and summer holidays seem a long way away. BUT, do not be down, there are ways of beating the blues.

1 Socialise in your community:

We may be tempted to wish January is out of the way and try to hibernate but actually we can feel better by spending time with family and friends and social connections. We all live in communities and this is where we sometimes can be surprised by the help we can find within our communities to beat ‘January blues’.

So, go out for a coffee and a chat, find out what groups and clubs are in your community. Start a new hobby. What’s on in your local pub, community buildings? Perhaps you have an idea for a group event – talk to your local community about your idea. Check the Connect to Support for activities and events in your local community. Also HAY website (How are you, Lincolnshire?)- where you can find local groups and activities to boost mental health and wellbeing.

2 Get outside and find out your local footpath network

Find out more about your neighbourhood, wrap up warm and head outside. Sunlight, even small amounts, the hit of vitamin D does wonders for energy levels and any exercise just makes you feel more positive about life in general. Also, this gives an opportunity to meet others in your community and can widen your knowledge of your area.  Is there a local Ramblers walking group in your community? Ramblers advises that ‘In England and Wales, we enjoy a world-renowned network of paths, tracks and trails that connects villages, towns and cities, and reaches into the countryside. Most of this network is made up of public rights of way on which we all have a right to walk.’

3 Eat well – shop at your local farm shop

Do you have a local community farm shop nearby? Buying those dark, leafy greens are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron and potassium. They can help fight off colds and flu, and boost brain function – plus they taste delicious! Make warm winter soups with cauliflower, parsnips and squash which are also packed with nutrients. Also, don’t forget the power of citrus fruits – vitamin C is a must for us all at this time of year – so stick an extra bag of oranges in your shopping.

You can beat the January blues in your community - socialise, get outside and shop local. Should you need to discuss ideas, see some of our community projects  or need further community support please contact the Community Development team at communities@lincsymca.co.uk.