How to turn your Blue Monday into a Happy Monday
EXCLUSIVE
EMMA PRYER
WILTING Christmas trees have been waiting for the bin men for days, Boris – and Covid – are still around, the weather is tediously dreary and work is full throttle.
So you may buy into the idea tomorrow is “Blue Monday” – the most depressing day of the year.
It’s been with us since 2005, when a UK travel company revealed the third Monday in January to be the most universally miserable date.
Here, some of Britain’s best-loved stars share their top tips for staying cheery when the chips are down.
EMMERDALE’S LISA RILEY
I’ve got a folder on my phone that I call my “Smile Bag”. It’s basically my favourite photos of the people and moments in my life that make me happy.
It really lifts my spirits. I also like to write a lot of my feelings down. It’s OK not to feel OK and on the days I feel better, I can read my journal.
DRAGONS’ DEN AND STRICTLY STAR SARA DAVIES
Take time out to do something you love, or try something new. A couple of years ago, I started running a few mornings a week. While the early alarms were a shock to the system at first, I felt so much better afterwards.
I’ve also completely fallen in love with wild water swimming, which is something I’ve been able to do with my mam and family and, most recently, dancing.
It’s so important to take time for yourself to keep those January blues away. It’s never too late to reignite an old passion or to find a brand new one.
■■ Dragons’ Den, Thursday, 8pm, BBC One ■■ strictlycomedancinglive.com
Celebs give their tips for saddest day
CHARITY CAMPAIGNER AND AUTHOR KATIE PIPER
Life is about finding your joy. It’s important because those little bits of shining light can make a big difference.
For me, it’s sitting down with a bar of Dairy Milk after a tough day.
I also try not to worry about what hasn’t happened yet. It really helps me cope and keep positive day-to-day.
SINGER AND TV STAR COLEEN NOLAN
I like to watch a lovely, escapist film like a musical so I can sing or dance my heart out. Doris Day is great for that… or Grease. Taking the dogs out for some fresh air is also a great way to blow away the blues and get fit at the same time. Exercise is an amazing mood lifter. But in order to keep smiling and stay positive on Blue Monday, I would remember it’s Tuesday in a few hours.
I’d also remember my mother telling me to appreciate the fact that I’m here when so many others aren’t and to feel grateful for it.
MASTERCHEF JUDGE AND EXERCISE GURU GREGG WALLACE
The difference between happy and unhappy is simply what you tell yourself.
And I’ve got another good tip – list all the things you like to do that don’t cost any money and do them.
If you find yourself feeling unhappy, stop and think of 10 things you’re grateful for.
For me, that would have to include having my health, a great relationship with my children and my lovely wife.
■■ showme.fit
SINGER AND TV STAR PETER ANDRE
When I feel anxious, I go and do a
workout. You may not want to but that’s when you have to. Go for a walk, go to the gym… it honestly helps so much with your headspace.
CORRIE’S SAMIA LONGCHAMBON
Whenever I’m feeling down or anxious, I remember the quote from Edward Fitzgerald: “This
too shall pass.” It helps remind me the bad times won’t always stay and everything in life is transient, so as well as making the most of the good times – because they too will pass – we need to remember the bad times aren’t permanent.
TV PRESENTER AND AUTHOR PAUL O’GRADY
I have a rule of never switching the telly on before 6pm. But if you’re feeling down, watching your favourite sad film and having a good cry will make you
feel better. Failing that, go for a walk and clear your head.
LOOSE WOMEN PANELLIST BRENDA EDWARDS
I like to just say “Keep smiling”, whether good or bad, as it helps me to maintain positive energy and a positive mental attitude. I also play music as it releases endorphins and gives me great energy. ■■Loose Women, weekdays from 12.30pm, on ITV and ITV Hub