Simple Ways To Chase Away The Winter Blues

Monday 20th January has long held the dubious title of 'Blue Monday', a term coined by marketers to describe what is thought to be the most depressing day of the year. Regardless, January can be a challenging month, so this blog is full of easy ways to chase away those winter blues.

Whilst it can be tempting to dismiss the very notion of blue Monday as nonsense, could there be something more to it?

Although the days begin to lengthen again following the winter solstice, the long hours of darkness and limited exposure to sunshine, can deplete vitamin D levels, particularly in those with darker skin.

A lack of this vitamin can have profound impacts on energy levels and even mood and it's responsible for regulating many other cellular functions in the body.

Add to the fact that January is generally a time of getting back on top of healthy habits, returning to work after time off over the festive period and facing the reality of Christmas overspending and overindulging.

Add dodgy weather into the mix, and it can all add up to a month that isn't the easiest to get through. Read on for our wellbeing tips that will help you get through blue Monday and beyond.

Practice Gratitude

When the days feel long and grey, it can be all too easy to focus on the negatives. Take a few moments each evening to jot down three things you're grateful for, these can be as big as being thankful for close personal relationships to the small things, like having time to chill in the bath or enjoying watching birds in the garden.

This simple practice can shift your mindset and help you see the good in each day.

Focus on Small Achievements

Big goals might seem an irresistible motivation at the start of a new year, but at the same time, they can feel overwhelming which can be counterproductive.

Starting small can be the key to achieving, so instead of signing up to a 5k at Easter, you might want to start with doing something like Couch to 5k, and then once completed, set your sights on signing up to a 5k.

Keep on top of your goals by starting each day with clear intentions, like drinking more water, getting to bed earlier, completing a short workout or prepping healthy meals and cutting down on takeaways or junk food.

Small wins can help build momentum and give you a sense of accomplishment, so be sure the celebrate the little things, not just the big goals.

Treat Yourself Without the Guilt

If the festive season left you financially stretched, treat yourself in small, affordable ways. A new book, a homemade hot chocolate, or a cosy pair of socks, a night in with friends, a drink at your favourite cafe or a nature walk.

Focusing on the little things can provide sparks of joy, and gifting yourself something as simple as 'me time' without feeling guilty, can do wonders for your sense of wellbeing.

Try Something New

Whether it's trying some new recipes, picking up a new hobby, daily journalling or starting a new challenge, doing something new can inject a bit of interest into your life.

Whilst many are keen to start new health regimes or make sweeping lifestyle changes in the new year, setting your sights a lower could be enough to shake up your routine and add a little something to January.

Prioritise Rest and Sleep

Hundreds of years ago humans adapted their working habits to accommodate the shorter days, making space for more rest. Although we can't hibernate (anyone else wish they could? Just me?) we can be mindful of our natural need to cut back and do a little less.

The darker days are a natural cue to rest and recharge. Ensure then that you're getting plenty of quality sleep by creating a relaxing bedtime routine, limiting screen time and spending time winding down.

By focusing on small, achievable steps, you can brighten up even the darkest January days and you may even create some new habits to carry you through the rest of winter and beyond.