There are different opinions as to the days of the week on which we feel happiest. Unexpectedly for many, a recent study by University College London suggests that happiness and satisfaction peak on Tuesdays. But the reality is, Sunday afternoons are generally characterised by a certain feeling of apathy, discouragement and, in the most extreme cases, sadness and even anxiety. It is normal to feel negative emotions, but if these signs are particularly evident or striking then they can be a warning sign that something is not going well on an emotional level. “Sunday confronts us with another reality. Although it’s still technically part of the weekend, it’s often a reminder that routine is just around the corner as our minds are already anticipating Monday’s tasks and commitments. But in reality, it’s not Sunday’s fault—but rather that of our own perception: we turn it into a symbol of the end of our freedom”, explains psychologist Ana Morales.
“In fact, when we anticipate something that is as unpleasant as returning to routine, our body responds: instead of generating dopamine and other well-being molecules, cortisol (the stress hormone) comes into play, preparing us to face challenges. This explains why on Sundays we often fail to fully enjoy the day and feel uncomfortable or even sad. We focus on pending tasks or next week’s commitments and that disconnects us from the present,” Ana adds. We live in anticipation and waiting mode, and it becomes difficult for us to enjoy the present, which in this case would be having a free Sunday afternoon where we don’t have to work. But it is possible, Morales adds, to choose how we want to live in the present moment given the fact that we cannot control what is yet to come.
A Sunday afternoon routine to generate dopamine
To generate dopamine on a daily basis treat yourself to something good three times a day. And by something good we are referring to simple things, not big luxuries: a quiet coffee, a conversation with a…
