Blue Monday or Brew Monday?

If your social media feed looks anything like mine today, you’ll have seen plenty of mentions of “Blue Monday” – it pops up in the news and on social media every year – this idea that the third Monday of January is the most depressing day of the year.

The term “Blue Monday” was reportedly coined in 2005 by a psychologist for a marketing campaign. They claimed this is supposed to be when we’re all feeling a bit rubbish – the excitement of Christmas is behind us and the credit card bills have landed, the weather is cold and gloomy, and we’ve already ditched our New Year’s resolutions and tucked back into the leftover Christmas chocolate…

I think the idea of naming one day as being the most depressing day of the year is a bit ridiculous. However, I can see why this time of year can feel heavy for many. Here in Aberdeenshire, winter has us firmly in its grip – it’s not properly light until 8.30am, and it’s getting dark again by 4.30pm. On grey days, it can feel like the sun barely makes an appearance at all. And this January, we’ve had plenty of snow and wintry weather to contend with. It’s hard not to want to hibernate! But I’ve learned over the years that how I approach winter makes all the difference and resisting the natural rhythm of the season makes me feel worse.

Wintering and the Rhythm of the Season

This time of year, we’re bombarded with messages to transform ourselves into a “new and improved” version – to lose weight, exercise more, be more productive but it’s no wonder so many of us struggle. It’s cold and dark and let’s be honest, all we want to do is snuggle up with a blanket and some comfort food!

I used to think I was failing when I couldn't live up to the “NEW YEAR, NEW YOU!’ pressure but then I realised that nature doesn't work that way. Plants and animals aren't rushing around trying to ‘do it all’ in the middle of winter. They are resting and conserving their energy. Beneath the surface, there’s quiet growth happening, in preparation to burst forth in spring. And we can do the same.

I’ll be honest, I’m a work in progress and there are still days when I resist winter. When I’m fed up with the cold and dark, and desperate for the warmth and brighter days to come. But I’ve learned that it is this resistance that makes me miserable. I’m learning to lean into the season instead – to embrace what author Katherine May calls “wintering.” Her book of the same name is a beautiful read, and it really helped me see winter in a new light.

Winter is a time to slow down, to rest, and to recharge. It’s not about being perfect or productive – it’s about allowing ourselves the space to just be.

Brew Monday: A Moment for Connection

Brew Monday is a campaign started by the Samaritans as an positive alternative to the gloom of Blue Monday. It encourages us to make time for a cuppa and a catch-up instead.

If you’re feeling a low, put the kettle on and make yourself a warm drink. I’m a bit of a tea monster and there’s nothing I love more than putting the kettle on and making a cuppa. There’s something about that simple act that’s so comforting, isn’t there? Take a moment to consciously breathe while the kettle boils. While the leaves infuse, think of one or two things that you are grateful for right now. Wrap your hands around your mug and let yourself just sit and sip for a bit, savouring the flavour and warmth it brings.

If you’ve got someone you can share that cuppa with, even better. Brew Monday is all about reaching out, having a chat, and sharing how you’re feeling.

If you’re on your own, try jotting your thoughts down in a notebook – sometimes just getting it all out of your head and onto paper can be such a relief.

Finding the Beauty in Winter

I won’t pretend I’ve always loved winter – it’s still not my favourite season. But I’ve learned to look for the good in it. I love the cosy evenings in front of the wood burner, the chance to slow down and enjoy the stunning sunrises and sunsets I rarely see in summer.

I also make an effort to get outside as much as I can. Some days, that just means standing at the open window with my tea and letting the daylight hit my face, but it really does help. Another thing that helps is looking for the first signs of spring – noticing the tiny buds on the trees, little green shoots pushing through the soil. Those glimmers remind me that the seasons are always turning, even when it doesn’t feel like it.

Be Gentle with Yourself

So, if you’re feeling blue today (or any day), be kind to yourself. Don’t pile on the pressure to be perfect or productive – just take it one small step at a time. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a cup of tea, a breath of fresh air, or a chat with a friend, those little acts of self-compassion make a big difference.

Spring is coming. The light is slowly returning, and brighter days are ahead. But for now, let’s appreciate this season for what it is – a time to rest, reflect, and recharge.

NB - this blog post is for general self-care purposes only. I am not, in any way, suggesting that seasonal affective disorder or depression should be ignored or put down to the ‘winter blues’. If you are suffering with any mental health issues please speak to your GP, a mental health professional, or a support organisation.

Useful contacts:

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy www.bcap.co.uk

Mind www.mind.org.uk

Samaritans call 116 123  www.samaritans.org