THEBlue Monday is known for being the saddest day of the year. In fact, it would seem that people on the third Monday of January, they feel more down in the dumps. The Christmas holidays are over and the following months are characterized by the absence of holidays. But what to do for neutralize this sadness and overcome Blue Monday with a smile? We asked the Doctor Marinella Cozzolinopsychotherapist, clinical sexologist.
Blue Monday: where it comes from
«Blue Monday was formulated by an English researcher whoworking for the TV channel dedicated to travel, Sky Travel, identified this period as particularly rich in holiday bookings. People, in fact, feel the need to escape from a perceived period considered difficult and devoid of stimuli. And they do this not by leaving, but by booking, thus having something beautiful to look forward to. The period is made even darker by the end of Christmas. Many experience a sort of nostalgia: on the one hand, the good moments spent with family and friends are now behind us, on the other hand there is the frustration associated with returning to routine. The days of relaxation without the sound of the alarm seem very far away. Additionally, winter weather contributes to a sense of constriction: cold, darkness and rain can amplify the sense of unease» explains Doctor Cozzolino.
Blue Monday: the frustration of good intentions
«During the Christmas holidays We always make good resolutions for the new year. There are those who plan to join the gym, those who plan to read more, those who plan to eat better. Unfortunately though we find ourselves in the third week of January with the awareness of not having put a single one into practice of those objectives, as they are overwhelmed by everyday life. This it can generate guilt and frustration. Despite the objective difficulties, it is possible to face Blue Monday using small strategies that can lift your mood» continues the expert.
Not what but how
«Life It’s not what, it’s how. We are in the middle of winter and the weather is objectively bad. The point, however, is how I experience it. You have to accept it without complaining. Awareness is essential to try to fix things. I can try to sweeten my life, but only if I recognize that it is bitter right now. Kind of like adding honey to unpleasant tasting syrup. Just change your point of view: when it rains, instead of complaining, you can enjoy staying at homeperhaps inviting a friend for tea or relaxing in front of the TV. The important thing is don’t escape from the sensations, but stay in the situationrecognize it as heavy and regroup. It’s true that Christmas is over and so are the evenings with old friends, the Christmas films, the card games. But Who’s stopping us from doing these things even in January? You just need to want it”, advises Doctor Cozzolino.
A look at finances
«It’s a fact: in January, between the expenses for Christmas presents and the taxes to pay, you feel poorer. And in fact it is. Furthermore, it is a fact: the economic demand of society is always greater. To prevent the pressure from becoming overwhelming, it can be It is useful to plan expenses in advance. Starting with Christmas gifts which many start buying during the January sales for the following holidays. In this way you save money and don’t get stressed. Yet, despite ruined finances, we must never give up small rewards.”
Blue Monday: give yourself small rewards
“For giving yourself small rewards does not require spending large sums. With a small amount, or rather a very small one, it is possible have a coffee at the bar, buy a cheap lipstick or go for a walk in the park with a friendwhich is even free. You can look at the stars, the sea, old photos that bring back past moments to life. These small daily rewards are essential for maintaining emotional balance and give us the push to get out of bed every day. Sadness can take over if not compensated by moments of well-being. It is wrong to believe: “This period is like this.” I have to do something for myself. If it is functional to your well-being, too give yourself an hour a day of solitude, of silence, doing nothing» concludes Doctor Cozzolino.
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