TOMORROW is Blue Monday, billed as the ‘most depressing day of the year’, writes May-Ling Turner.
Returning to work after Christmas, dark and cold days and still a week away from payday all contribute to many individuals feeling blue.
Music and Cycling are some ways to deal with Blue Monday.
Blue Monday occurs on the third Monday of every January. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of prioritising mental health.
Mental health can be worse for many during the winter months due to the short dark days and a lack of sunshine. One in three people in the UK suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). This is where people feel low because of a lack of daylight.
There are many ways to boost one’s mood and reduce stress and anxiety.
According to the NHS, engaging in at least two hours of exercise per week can significantly help combat stress and enhance wellbeing.
Simon Bennett, managing director of cycleGuard and musicGuard said: “Activities like cycling offer a compelling way to improving mental and physical wellbeing.”
How cycling lifts your mood
Cycle and e-biker insurer cycleGuard shares the mental health benefits of cycling to help improve people’s mental and physical well-being: improves well-being, reduces anxiety, boosts memory and reasoning.
Research, conducted by ISGlobal across European cities, compared different ways of getting around such as: walking, driving or public transport.
Cycling was claimed the number one mode of transport for improving wellbeing. Less than an hour of cycling helps the body produce the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). This chemical helps to regulate stress within the body.
A study of almost 300 students found that riding a bike helped reduce signs of anxiety. All aerobic exercise can be good for the brain, helping maintain blood flow to the organ providing it with a supply of nutrients and oxygen.
Older and younger people benefit from physical exercise and brain function. A study had a group of healthy young men pedal a stationary bike at a moderate pace for 30 minutes.
The group completed a series of tests before and after the exercise. The study concluded that after their 30 minute pedal they scored higher on memory, planning and reasoning.
-They were able to complete the tests quicker than before the exercise.
Visit: cycleguard.co.uk/blue-monday for more
Music – So many benefits
Another way to deal with Blue Monday is through music.
Mr Bennett said: “Whether it’s listening, playing, or creating, music offers a unique way to combat stress and improve your mood.”
Music insurer musicGuard shares the benefits of music on mind and body: music can lower blood pressure, music can improve mental health and music can reduce screen time.
Studies have shown that slow and calming orchestral music has the most positive impact on heart health. It can be used to reverse blood pressure problems at a pre-medication stage.
Playing music can build confidence by giving a sense of purpose and improve brain development. Studies have shown that it can slow down natural brain degradation and is valuable for older people.
Playing an instrument keeps the body moving and reduces time spent sitting still. After a music practice, individuals are more likely to stay productive and avoid phone scrolling.
Mr Bennett added: “This Blue Monday, we’re encouraging everyone to embrace the rhythm and let music be a source of comfort and joy.”
Visit musicguard.co.uk/blue-monday-music for more information.
