Monday is the first day of the week in many countries, including the United States and Canada. The name “Monday” comes from the Old English word “Monandæg,” which means “Moon’s day.”
Monday is often associated with the start of the workweek and school week, and is typically the busiest day of the week for most people.
It can also be associated with feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression as people struggle to get back into the routine of work or school after the weekend.
Despite its reputation as a difficult day, some cultures have traditions and beliefs associated with Monday, such as specific foods to eat or religious practices to observe.
Monday Facts
1. Monday is the first day of the week in many countries
Monday is the first day of the week in many countries, including the United States and Canada. This convention has its roots in both ancient and modern calendars, where the seven-day week is a common organizing principle.
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In many cultures, Monday is considered a fresh start, a time to set goals and plan for the week ahead.
2. The name “Monday” comes from the Old English word “Monandæg”
The name “Monday” comes from the Old English word “Monandæg,” which means “Moon’s day.” This name reflects the ancient association of the moon with the first day of the week, which can be traced back to the Roman calendar.
3. Monday is considered an unlucky day
In many cultures, Monday is considered an unlucky day, associated with bad omens and superstitions.
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For example, in Greek and Turkish folklore, it is believed that Monday is an unlucky day to begin a journey or start a new project. In Italian folklore, Monday is associated with witches and other supernatural forces.
4. Monday is associated with specific deities or spiritual practices
In some religions, Monday is associated with specific deities or spiritual practices, such as the worship of the moon or the practice of fasting. In Hinduism, Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and devotees often fast and visit temples on this day. In Islam, Monday is one of the two recommended days for fasting, along with Thursday.
5. Monday is the busiest day of the week
Monday is the busiest day of the week for most people, as it is the start of the workweek and school week. This can lead to increased traffic, longer lines at stores and restaurants, and a general sense of busyness and stress.
6. Monday is a day for planning ahead
Many businesses and organizations hold meetings on Mondays to set goals and plan for the week ahead. This can be a productive way to start the week, but it can also contribute to the sense of overwhelm and stress associated with the day.
7. Monday can be a struggle
Monday is often associated with feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression, as people struggle to get back into the routine of work or school. This can be exacerbated by factors such as lack of sleep, financial pressures, and social isolation. However, there are also strategies that can help manage these feelings, such as taking breaks throughout the day, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in physical activity.
8. There is a 24% increase in heart attacks on Mondays
According to a study by the American Heart Association, there is a 24% increase in heart attacks on Mondays, compared to other days of the week. This may be due to the stress of returning to work or school, or a disruption in sleep patterns over the weekend.
9. Monday is the second most common day for people to call in sick
Monday is the second most common day for people to call in sick, after Friday. This can be due to a variety of factors, including feeling overwhelmed or burnt out from the previous week, or trying to extend the weekend by taking an extra day off.
10. It is traditional to eat certain foods on Mondays
In some cultures, it is traditional to eat certain foods on Mondays, such as black-eyed peas in the southern United States or meatless meals in Eastern Orthodox Christian countries. These traditions may have religious or cultural significance, or may be rooted in practical considerations such as the availability of certain foods on particular days of the week.
11. Monday is the most common day for car accidents to occur
Monday is the most common day for car accidents to occur, due to increased traffic and the stress of commuting. This underscores the importance of practicing safe driving habits and taking breaks to reduce stress while on the road.
12. Monday is also the most popular day for people to start a new diet
Monday is also the most popular day for people to start a new diet or exercise program. This may be due to a desire to “get back on track” after indulging over the weekend, or a renewed commitment to health and wellness.
13. The movie “Monday” premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival
The movie “Monday” premiered at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival and tells the story of a tumultuous relationship that unfolds over the course of one weekend. This film explores themes of love, passion, and the consequences of impulsive decisions.
14. The first Monday in May is known as the Met Gala
The first Monday in May is known as the Met Gala, a fundraising event for the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute in New York City. This event is known for its glamorous red carpet and avant-garde fashion, and attracts celebrities and fashion icons from around the world.
15. “Manic Monday” is a song by The Bangles
“Manic Monday” is a song by The Bangles that was written by Prince and became a hit in 1986. The song tells the story of a woman who is overwhelmed by the demands of her job and longs for a simpler life. The catchy tune and relatable lyrics made it a popular song of the 80s and beyond.
16. The “Monday Night Football” began in 1970
The “Monday Night Football” franchise began in 1970 and is still a popular television program in the United States. The weekly game features two National Football League (NFL) teams and is broadcast on Monday evenings during the football season. It is a cultural phenomenon, with fans gathering to watch the game and discuss the outcomes.
17. Blue Monday
“Blue Monday” is a term that refers to the feeling of sadness or depression that can occur on Mondays, due to the end of the weekend and the start of the workweek. This feeling is common among many people, and can be attributed to a variety of factors such as lack of sleep, work-related stress, or social isolation.
18. Most people search for jobs online on Mondays
Monday is the day of the week when the most people search for jobs online, according to a study by the job search website Monster.com. This may be because people are motivated to make a fresh start at the beginning of the week, or because they are feeling dissatisfied with their current job situation.
19. “Monday morning feels so bad, everybody seems to nag me”
The Australian band The Easybeats had a hit song in 1966 called “Friday on My Mind,” which includes the line “Monday morning feels so bad, everybody seems to nag me.” This song captures the feeling of anticipation and excitement for the weekend, followed by the disappointment and stress of returning to work on Monday.
20. Monday is derived from the Latin phrase “dies Lunae”
In many languages, including Spanish and French, the word for Monday is derived from the Latin phrase “dies Lunae,” which means “day of the moon.” This reflects the ancient association of the moon with the first day of the week, and is still reflected in modern calendars.
21. Monday is the least popular day for people to get married
Monday is the least popular day for people to get married, according to a survey by the wedding planning website The Knot. This may be because many people prefer to get married on weekends, when family and friends are more likely to be available to attend the ceremony and celebrate. However, some couples may choose to get married on a Monday for practical or symbolic reasons.
22. The planet associated with Monday is the Moon
In astrology, the planet associated with Monday is the Moon, which is believed to govern emotions, intuition, and the subconscious mind. This may be why Monday is often associated with feelings of emotional and mental intensity, as people are grappling with the start of a new week and all the challenges that come with it.
23. Monday is the day of the week when the most people visit their doctors
Monday is the day of the week when the most people visit their doctors, according to a study by the healthcare data company Amino. This may be because people are more likely to notice health concerns after a weekend of indulging in food, alcohol, or other activities, or because they are trying to get medical issues addressed before they impact their work or school week.
24. Casual Mondays
The concept of “casual Fridays” originated in the 1990s as a way for workers to dress more comfortably on Fridays, but it has since expanded to other days of the week, including Mondays. This trend reflects a broader shift in workplace culture, where many companies are prioritizing employee comfort and well-being by allowing more relaxed dress codes and flexible work arrangements.
25. Monday morning sets the tone for the rest of the week
In many cultures, it is believed that the first thing you do on Monday morning sets the tone for the rest of the week, so it is important to start the day on a positive note. This may involve practices such as meditation, exercise, or journaling, or simply taking time to set intentions for the week ahead. By starting the week with a clear and positive mindset, people may be better equipped to handle the challenges and opportunities that come their way.