Are you in the doldrums because Monday morning is around the corner? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. According to Monday Campaign, about 15 percent of people said that Monday is “a day to dread”.
Honestly, it can be a bit disorienting to work on Monday after a weekend of fun or a holiday vacation. A study published in the American Heart Journal stated that high stress and myocardial infarction (heart attack) rates happen during Mondays when the workweek begins.
That says a lot about how work is perceived. Think about it: If you like what you do, Monday morning is another day to start anew. But if you don’t like your work or you feel unappreciated, Monday morning can be a downer.
But you have the choice to make the most of your mental health. Here are some ways to shake off the Monday blues and have a jazzier way to start the week:
- Sleep and wake up early -- Your sleeping cycle is vital for your overall well-being. If you hit the sack later than you should, chances are you will wake up grumpy and late. Poor sleeping habits rob you of precious time to meditate in the morning or start journaling. Having ample sleep is important, more so on Monday mornings when the thought of another work week can make you feel miserable. Check out SleepAdvisor.org to know more about sleep hygiene.
- Try meditating -- Meditating is a great way to accept the mystery of life. This activity pierces through different aspects of human beings. You can also use this as one of your main activities to have a sunnier perspective about Monday. You can try guided meditation on Spotify or Youtube. Find a silent space where you can hear your breathing and focus on the present.
- Plan your day -- Take the time to map out your day. It does not have to be extensive but more like a way to give structure to your day. Play some songs in the background to make your environment more relaxed.
- Add activities throughout your day -- A sedentary lifestyle can zap your energies any day. Working out can make the difference. According to Verywell Mind, sweat sessions release happy hormones called endorphins, which can boost your mood. You can start by stretching in the morning and working your way up to a vigorous workout. Another option is to use a sit-stand desk like FlexiSpot’s electric standing desk so you can sit and stand whenever you like. This standing desk moves at the touch of a button so you can change work positions whenever you feel like it.
- Be thankful -- Count your blessings when you start to feel the Monday blues creeping in. Harness gratitude to lift yourself and to change the way you see Monday. This exercise will help you to see the good things in your life.
Cheer up! You can enjoy Mondays!
Did you know that there are 52 days in 2021? You might as well figure out a way to make the best of them. You will increase your well-being if you do. You can extend the positivity around you, too. Be that ray of sunshine on an otherwise blue Monday.
