3 Mindful Rituals To Get Through That Blue Monday Feeling

It’s officially 2023 - and with that, comes a brand new set of goals. January can be one of the most exciting, yet challenging months of the year. We are full of hope, and eagerness for what's in store in the next 12 months, but also, we can feel overwhelmed by the unknown.  In this article, we will be looking at three mindful ways that you can beat the Blue Monday this January, and how you can feel more balanced for the first month of 2023.

What Is Blue Monday?

In January, we enter the new year with fresh energy. We are excited about all the exciting opportunities that the next calendar year will bring. However, also in January is Blue Monday. Aptly named by Sky Travel, Blue Monday is the name given to a day in January that is said to be the ‘most depressing day of the year’. This is because around this time, people have gone back to their daily routines, and work and most have decided to shelve their new year resolution - the glow from 2023 begins to decapitate. 

During the winter months, particularly around January, we need to pay special attention to our mental health. It’s important, that alongside that new year excitement, we are also still taking care of ourselves. New year goals are important, and of course, very thrilling, but that shouldn’t overshadow the routine that allows us to feel comfortable and happy in our day-to-day lives. 

3 Mindful Rituals To Add To Your Winter Routine This January

All year round, focussing on our mental health and overall balance is essential. But in winter, with shorter days, and the colder temperature, many of us can really feel the effects. 

1.Rise And Set With The Sun

Getting a good night’s sleep is part of any healthy routine - particularly if you are keeping to the ayurveda sleep hours. It gives you the energy you need throughout the day and improves your brain performance, mood, and health. In the winter, the Kâpha dosha is dominant, which means that to ensure that it’s balanced, you will have to avoid falling into laziness. It’s essential to have a good sleeping schedule and make adjustments in the colder season.  In ayurveda teaching, it is recommended that you get up one hour, and 30 minutes before the sun. In the winter, this can mean that you are getting up a little earlier. Therefore, you may find yourself rising at around 6 am before the sun is in the sky. In the evening, going to bed before 10 pm will give you a full restful routine to follow. 

2. Adjust Your Winter Menu 

In the winter, you should be focusing on meals that will warm your soul and nourish your body. Ensuring that you consume a good amount of healthy, and diverse food will help you to combat any feelings of winter depression. We recommend starting your day with a glass of water with fresh lemon slices. This is a great source of vitamin C, and will not only fight off any seasonal sadness but will also boost your immune system - say goodbye to common winter colds! Adding green tea, turmeric, leafy greens, and fatty to your diet is also a good idea.

3. Massage Your Body & Face 

In the winter, our skin can become dry, which means that paying more attention to it is a must.  Before you shower, we recommend dry brushing your skin and following after with an oil massage.