The January Blues – Do we Beat them or just merely meet them?
January can be a challenging month for many people. The passing of the festive break hits us right back into reality central of going back to work, how much we have ate, drank or faked the smile for situations at Christmas we really didn’t want to be in, the days are short and often gloomy, and the pressure of New Year’s resolutions can weigh heavily.
I’m not a fan of resolutions myself. If you find yourself feeling down during this time, here are some strategies to help lift your spirits and combat the January blues.
- Embrace the Outdoors
Even though the weather might not be ideal, spending time outside can significantly improve your mood. Natural light boosts serotonin levels, which can help alleviate feelings of depression. Here are some ways to enjoy the outdoors:
Go for a walk: A brisk walk in nature can clear your mind and elevate your mood, 10 minutes can relive stress and lower blood pressure
Gardening: Engage in winter gardening tasks, like planning your spring garden or tending to indoor plants.
- Stay Active
Physical activity is a powerful tool for combating the blues. It releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Consider incorporating these into your routine:
Join a gym or fitness class: Group activities can provide motivation and social interaction, research shares people who are struggling recover fast when they are connected than those who aren’t connected.
Practice yoga or meditation: These practices can reduce stress and increase feelings of well-being, reducing stress.
- Connect with Others
Isolation can exacerbate feelings of sadness, so try to connect with friends and family. Here’s how:
Schedule regular catch-ups: A simple coffee date or phone call can make a big difference, arrange a zoom call if you can’t get out – seeing a friend or loved one increases oxytocin.
Join clubs or groups: Find local groups that share your interests, whether it’s a book club or a sports team, meet up is a great place to start.
Volunteer: Helping others can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment, find a charity that ignites your mood in a positive way and sign up and connect.
- Focus on Nutrition and Reduce Alcohol
What you eat can have a significant impact on your mood and energy levels. Consider these tips:
Eat a balanced diet: Incorporate plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
Limit sugar and processed foods: These can lead to energy spikes and crashes. Alcohol can be full of sugar, and it can act as a depressant. No one is saying stop, just consider your intake.
Stay hydrated: Dehydration can worsen feelings of fatigue and irritability.
- Seek Professional Help
If the January blues persist and interfere with your daily life, it might be time to seek professional help. A therapist or counsellor can provide support and coping strategies tailored to your needs.
By incorporating these strategies into your life, you can help ward off the January blues and start the new year on a positive note. Remember that it’s okay to feel down at times, but taking proactive steps can make a significant difference in how you feel.
On working in January: Some modern readers note that January can be a time for recovery and reading, observing that winter months were when Dickens was a “heavy” writer, keeping to his desk. My thoughts here are, maybe we embrace the hibernation and just enjoy the month to read, write or merely recovery and relax just like Dickens did! I know when I’m choosing to do, and it’s meeting every January Day as it comes.
Kerry Tonks
Beet Consultancy Ltd
kerry@beetconsultancy.com
