How To Have a Happy Blue Monday
January 20, 2025On Blue Monday – renowned to be the gloomiest day of the year – it’s easy for things to feel a little colder; a little bleak. But we like to think of Blue Monday as a reminder to nurture our mental wellbeing. For us, that’s through connection to the blue, beating heart of our planet. Waves, caves, shells and swells. The smell of the sea and sound of water. They all bring us into the present moment.
Naturally, here in Cornwall we turn to the coast to feel uplifted and calm. In its vastness, we are reminded to let go of what we can’t control and focus on what we really matters. From finding joy in the simple moments with the sea at our side, to feeling our most alive within the swell and seaweed, the bluer the better, we say. But don’t just take our word for it. Blue health is a widely researched topic…
“We are beginning to learn that our brains are hardwired to react positively to water and that being near it can calm and connect us, increase innovation and insight, and even heal what’s broken.”
Wallace J. Nichols, Blue Mind
How does being in and around water benefit our wellbeing?
- Better mood: Water has a ‘psychologically restorative effect‘ on humans, with time by the water consistently linked with positive mood and reduced stress.
- Looking outward: As we slow down, step away from the digital rush, and focus on the waves and wildlife, our focus shifts outward, giving our minds space to reset and our nervous systems a chance to rebalance.
- Gratitude: With so much going on in the world, a trip to our coastline is a way to remember all the positives and natural beauty we have around us.
- Improved sleep: A study shows that people sleep on average for 47 minutes longer after a good walk along the coast! We all feel better after a rested night.
How can we practice blue mind in Cornwall?
In Cornwall, even in land Cornwall, you are never more than around 20 miles from the coast. So if this Blue Monday, you want to turn the doom and gloom into taking action for your health, wellbeing and happiness, we invite you to plan your next escape to the coast; whether you book a quiet ‘calmcation’ to soothe your soul, or an invigorating wellness break in Cornwall, designed to uplift.
Plan a Surfing Escape this Blue Monday
Surfers probably practice ‘Blue Mind’ more than most people; they are attuned to the changing tides, accustomed to reading it carefully and predicting its next move. Have you ever come across a stressed out surfer?
The wave rich north coast of Cornwall offers endless options in the search for unspoiled, quiet surfing locations. A 20 minute drive from St Agnes lies the golden sands of Gwithian, where our experience partners, Global Boarders, will show you the ropes during a fun-filled, expert-led surf lesson. Their sessions are bookable within your online guest account.
Shangri La, A Surfers Haven
If you’re looking for somewhere to stay that is ideal for those exciting darts to the shoreline, Shangri La (sleeps 10, St Agnes) should be top of your list.
- Unrivalled ocean views, so you can wave watch in comfort
- Beautiful interior design inspired by the owners’ travels
- Welcomes 2 dogs, with dog friendly Trevaunance Cove just moments away
- EV charger
Our Perfect for Surfers collection showcases homes within walking distance to the beach, offering unparalleled access to the UK’s most renowned surf hotspots. With handy features such as outdoor showers or board storage, taking to the waves is made easy for both seasoned surfers and enthusiastic newbies.
Explore the Coast Path
It’s surprising how much we experience whilst embracing The Joy of Missing Out. With no set plans and nowhere to be, we are free to roam at our own pace, wherever our boots take us. Embrace the idea of ‘soft travel‘, by which visitors throw out the itinerary, ditch the schedule and instead travel slowly, take detours, settle in to the local community and savour the experience.
A walking holiday in Cornwall is a wonderful way to travel softly and slowly. To delve deeper into coastal life, why not join a guided walking tour with Kate Passmore of The Cornish Explorers? Kate champions mindful exploring and you can book in some time with her during your restorative holiday in Cornwall, inside your online guest account.
First Light, St Ives, sleeps 10
Perched on the scenic coastal path between the pristine white sands of Porthminster Beach and the chic resort of Carbis Bay, First Light is the ultimate luxury beach house escape. From its enviable location in the sought-after destination of St Ives, this stylish home offers breathtaking views across the bay, stretching as far as Godrevy Lighthouse, St Agnes Beacon, and on clear days, all the way to the island of Lundy.
Embrace Cornwall’s Wild Swimming Lifestyle
Wild swimming has seen a rise in popularity over the last few years. Perhaps driven by lockdowns, pool closures, and the desire to reconnect with nature, swimmers have have taken to the great outdoors. We invite you to pack your swimsuit this Blue Monday, and plan some wild swimming adventures into your wellness holiday in Cornwall.
We recommend joining a group wild swim if you don’t know the waters around Cornwall. The wild swimmers of Cornwall welcome everyone to join their swims, both new and seasoned swimmers can join them in the water. Inclusivity and community spirit is part of the mental health benefits of open water swimming in Cornwall. The Blue Tits are just one example of a group taking to the water regularly.
Bodrigy, Cadgwith, sleeps 12
Live a very Cornish holiday life and open the door to Bodrigy, an extra special holiday home set high above the postcard-perfect fishing cove of Cadgwith on the Lizard Peninsula and offering some of the most stunning seascapes in Cornwall. This wonderful family home has been thoughtfully created for holiday life to seamlessly flip from lazy afternoons on the lawn to local explorations of this magical corner of the county to gatherings around the table enjoying good food and family time.
As Blue Monday reminds us of the importance of nurturing our wellbeing, Cornwall offers the perfect escape to reconnect with the blue heart of our world. Whether through wild swims, coastal walks, or simply soaking in the sea’s serenity, there’s no better remedy for the soul. Let the rhythm of the waves and the beauty of the coast guide you to a brighter, more balanced state of mind. Ready to embrace the blue? Cornwall awaits.