By the middle of January, many of us are deep into our new year intentions. Moving more, eating better, getting organised, and being more consistent. It all sounds very positive, but it can quietly add up.
And then, just as routines start to feel demanding, we are reminded that ‘Blue Monday’ is approaching. Often described as the most depressing day of the year, it typically falls in the third week of January. Whether or not the science behind it is solid, the feeling it describes is very real for many people. The festive glow has faded, the weather is often grey, and motivation can dip.
This is also the time of year when health and wellness TV programmes are in full swing. I recently watched one on ultra-processed foods, and it was a good reminder of how complex modern food has become. Even I sometimes get caught out. A product can look wholesome at first glance, but the ingredient list tells a very different story.
It is always worth slowing down and reading labels. Not to be perfect, but to be informed and make different choices.
Why Mid-January Feels So Heavy
This part of the year is demanding. There is less daylight for many of us, routines are stricter, expectations are higher, and we are often running on lower emotional reserves. Many people are also navigating sugar crashes after the festive period, disrupted sleep, and the pressure to ‘do better’ all at once.
This is why gentle support matters more than dramatic change right now.
A Little Ingredient Spotlight: Saffron
One of the reasons I love working with ingredients rather than trends is that many of them have been used for centuries to support wellbeing. Saffron is one of those.
Traditionally used in cooking and prized for its colour and flavour, saffron has also been studied for its effects on mood and emotional balance. Research suggests that, when taken as a supplement, it may support neurotransmitters involved in emotional regulation, such as serotonin and dopamine.
This does not mean it fixes everything. But it can be a helpful part of a broader mental wellbeing picture that includes rest, nourishment, movement, and self-compassion. In a month that often feels heavy, gentle uplifts matter, and Saffron just fits the bill.
Small Things That Help Right Now
It is also helpful to remember that for many of us, this is not the time for extremes. A few small adjustments can go a long way.
- A short walk outdoors, even on grey days, helps reset circadian rhythms and lift mood.
- Eating regular meals with protein and fibre supports steadier energy.
- Reading labels helps you make healthier and more informed food choices.
- Going to bed half an hour earlier can change the whole next day.
None of these need to be perfect, but they are small ways to support the bigger picture.
Final Thought
Blue Monday does not mean something is badly wrong. It reflects a moment in the year when many people feel stretched, tired, and in need of gentler support.
If January feels heavier than you expected, you are not alone. This is not the time to push harder. It is the time to steady yourself, soften your expectations, and choose what genuinely supports you.
