Don't be sad! Even though it's Blue Monday

How are you feeling today?

It's a loaded existential question on this third Monday in January.

That's because the third Monday of every January has been labelled 'Blue Monday' -- the so-called dreariest, most dismal, most despondent, dispirited and downhearted day of the year.

Sure, it's the middle of winter, skies are grey, the elation of Christmas and New Year's is a distant memory, your resolutions are bust, the bill of the festive season are due and you've got nothing to look forward to but the slog of work and home.

It was Welsh psychologist Dr. Cliff Arnall who coined the term 'Blue Monday' in 2004 based on the start of the third work week in January being a real downer.

There really isn't any science to back up the psychologist's quip, but Blue Monday stuck and is still around more than two decades later because the concept resonates with people who feel low and melancholy this time of year.

UK-based travel agency Sky Travel ran with it and encouraged beleaguered Britons in an advertising campaign to book a sun holiday on Blue Monday as something to cheer them up and look forward to.

You could certainly book a holiday to a tropical paradise today and feel better.

But, if time and finances don't allow that, there are simpler and cheaper options to cheer you up.

Take the dog for a walk, go on a hike or hit the gym.

Exercise is a proven mood booster.

Make self care a priority.

It can be as uncomplicated as a quiet cup of coffee while going over the list of what you have to be grateful for in your life.

Cook a nice dinner, have a nice glass of wine, connect with a friend, family member or neighbour you haven't talked to in a while or start that book you've been meaning to.

Even housework or work-work can pull you out of a funk if you get a feeling of accomplishment by starting or finishing a project you've been meaning to.

Remember, work-life balance is so important for your mental health.