“Blue Monday” is a term used to describe the third Monday in January, claimed to be the most depressing day of the year.

I first heard of it when it fell on my birthday one year (the 24th), which wasn’t a very nice present!

The concept was first introduced in a press release by a travel company in 2005 and based on a formula that considers various factors such as weather, debt levels, time since Christmas, and the likelihood of failing New Year’s resolutions.

But wait!

Rather than viewing Blue Monday as an insurmountable obstacle, why not reframe it as an opportunity for motivation and positive change?

I say, let’s get RED on Blue Monday!

RED January (Rise Every Day) is a Canadian-wide campaign to help you move your way every day for your physical, social and mental well-being.

On Monday, January 15th, 2024, in Toronto, as part of RED January Canada, The GenWell Project and I want to invite you to Innis Theatre at The University of Toronto to watch the Canadian premiere of the documentary “Join or Die.”

Here’s a link to the trailer

It’s a film about Dr. Robert Putnam’s journey to understand the importance of community and connection, which is also what RED January Canada is all about.

As Dr. Putnam says, “Your chances of dying over the next year are cut in half by joining one group.”

So rather than just sitting idly by, we thought that hosting an event on Blue Monday where people can come together to connect could help people stay happier and healthier.

We’ve secured Adam Growe (you may know him as the host of Cash Cab) to be our MC and follow-up panel moderator, where Pete Bombaci, Dr. Troy Glover, Dr. Sasha Golish and I will discuss strategies for becoming more connected through the power of community and getting active. 

Tickets are limited and are first come, first served, so CLICK HERE TO GRAB YOUR TICKETS. We look forward to seeing you there!

Play on!

Coach Jan xox