You may have heard that next Monday, January 19th, is labeled “Blue Monday” – statistically cited as the most depressing day of the year. Between the shorter days, the post-Christmas come down and the pressure of resolutions that might already feel heavy, it’s no wonder January can feel like a bit of an uphill climb.
But at Bodyfixit, we want to shift the focus. Instead of assuming Monday has to be a bad day, let’s use it as a reminder to shine a light on the small, simple things that make us feel better.
Why January feels tough (and why that’s okay)
It’s important to acknowledge why many of us feel a bit “flat” right now. The lack of daylight affects our circadian rhythms, the cold keeps us indoors, and there’s often a societal pressure to “reset” everything at once.
If you’re feeling a little lower on energy, remember: You aren’t failing; you’re just navigating a challenging season. The key isn’t to force a “New Year, New You” overhaul, but to find small ways to support your mood and your body.
Movement: Your Natural Mood Booster
It may not come as a surprise, that we believe one of the most effective ways to break through the January fog is movement. You don’t need to run a marathon to see the benefits. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the fresh air or a Pilates session, physical activity triggers a powerful internal shift:
- The D.O.S.E. Effect: As we’ve chatted about before, movement releases endorphins and serotonin – our body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals.
- Easing the “Winter Hunch”: Cold weather makes us huddle and tense up. Stretching and Pilates help open the body, releasing physical tension that can often mirror our mental stress.
- A Sense of Achievement: Simply showing up for yourself provides a mental win that can change the trajectory of your whole day.
From Blue Monday to Brew Monday 
We are also big fans of the Samaritans’ “Brew Monday” initiative. They suggest turning the “Blue” into “Brew” by taking the time to connect with others over a cuppa.
Connection is a vital pillar of health. So, we encourage you to:
- Reach out: Is there a friend you haven’t spoken to since December? Send a text or invite them for a tea.
- Listen: Sometimes the best gift we can give someone is a “listening ear” without trying to fix their problems.
- Combine the two: Why not invite a friend to a Pilates class and grab a coffee or tea afterward? Movement plus connection is a double win for your mental wellbeing.
Deep Rest: Tools for Winter Resilience
Sometimes, the best way to handle deep Winter is to lean into restoration. While Bodyfixit keeps you moving, our sister company, Salisbury Meditation and Sound Therapy, offers the perfect space to quiet the mind and reset the nervous system.
If you are looking for a way to manage stress and find your calm during these darker months, these events are powerful tools:
- Sound Baths: A regular favourite! Immerse yourself in healing frequencies to clear mental clutter and support deep sleep. Dates listed at the bottom of this newsletter.
- Save the Date! Rejuvenate and Relaxation Mini Retreat: This is the perfect way to transition from winter into spring, focusing on stress reduction and total relaxation. Mark your diaries now—it’s the light at the end of the tunnel!
- When: 22nd March | 10am – 1:30pm
- Where: The beautifully renovated St John’s Place.
Reduce Stress Workshops: Looking for practical tools to handle the pressure?
If your mind feels busy, your body feels tense, or switching off at night feels harder than it should, you’re not alone. Salisbury Meditation and Sound Therapy, has a gentle way to help.
Following a successful first session, there is one more Introductory Session on Monday 26th January at 6:45 PM. This is the perfect, low-pressure way to try the practice before the full 6-week “Reduce Stress, Feel Calmer and Sleep Better” course begins.
Over the course, you’ll explore:
- Practical Tools: Simple ways to reduce everyday stress that actually fit into real life.
- Mindfulness & Meditation: Different techniques to calm a busy mind (no experience needed!).
- Better Sleep: Gentle support for relaxing a tense body and switching off at night.
- Manageable Habits: How to build a realistic practice you can continue at home.
- This isn’t about “clearing your mind” or sitting still for hours; it’s about learning supportive tools for when life feels full.
- Intro Session: £14 (26th)
- Full 6-Week Course: £84
- Small Group: Limited to just 7 spaces to keep things calm and supportive.
- Whether you are completely new to mindfulness or just need a better way to manage stress, you are very welcome.