January Blues: Banish Those Blues
January is renowned for being a challenging month. Whatever your reason for finding it hard (and even if you don’t!), try following some of these tips to make it more manageable.
1. Be sociable
It can be difficult to go from being surrounded by your friends and family to being alone (or with fewer people) once again. Make the most of living in a tech-savvy society and use FaceTime to connect with loved ones on a regular basis. They may be some distance away, but with video calling, they can be close to you whenever you wish!
2. Move more
It’s scientifically proven that exercise helps your body to release endorphins – they’re natural pick me ups. Whatever your fitness level, try to move that bit more for a quick boost. Why not go for a brisk walk at lunchtime or dance in the kitchen along to your favourite tunes as you’re cooking your evening meal?
3. Plan ahead
If you are missing the social buzz that often comes hand in hand with Christmas and New Year, why not get out your diary and fill it with opportunities to socialise? Have a look at the ‘What’s Coming Up in 2019?’ guide (pages 42 to 51 in our January issue) and speak to friends and family members who’d appreciate those events just like you. Pencil it in!
4. Set yourself a challenge
Avoid making silly, unattainable New Year’s resolutions, but set yourself a smaller challenge instead. If you are struggling to make ends meet, like many people in the post-Christmas lull, having meal plans can really help. If you’re simply hoping to eat a little more healthily, then why not try going meat-free one or two days a week? It can be difficult finding things to do with the children, which don’t cost the earth. Print off a scavenger hunt and go for a walk in a local woodland or join the growing trend of collecting litter in your local area.
5. Declutter
How many times have we heard the saying ‘clear space, clear mind’? Having a good old sort out can be cathartic. Take unwanted items to the charity shop or sell on eBay or Facebook marketplace. Look through your wardrobe and get rid of anything in the wrong size and items you haven’t worn for a year.
