January blues

Okay, let’s be real. 2020 sucked and were all hoping for a better new year. With the excitement of Christmas and New Year’s passing, and now with the majority of the country in ANOTHER lockdown, there really isn’t much to look forward to. I can confidently say (and many of you probably can say the same) I have the January Blues :(

If I had to define the ‘January Blues’ I would say that it is a particular period of time where our mood and emotions are negatively affected, and general morale is low’. With gloomy dark days and nights all blurring into one, the cold temperatures outside, and the tone of Boris’s voice telling me to ‘STAY AT HOME’ for which seems like an eternity, I am struggling to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But this year one of my new year’s resolutions is to put things in perspective and spread positivity where I can. So, if like me, you need a little pick-me-up to help you conquer your January Blues then check out my suggestions.

Fresh air and exercise

We, as humans, are not built to sit indoors all day, staring at computer screens until we become cross-eyed. We need sunlight, we need fresh air, and limited exposure to these things affect our balance of emotions. So, whether it’s a quick 10min walk on your lunch break or long country weekend stroll, get yourself outside and away from the screen! Your body will thank you, and you won’t believe how much more productive your mind will be.

Avoid unrealistic new year’s goals

I feel new year’s resolutions are super helpful in helping me stay focused and ambitious. Make a list of a few achievable things you want to accomplish and work towards these in good time. You’ll achieve a lot more and you’ll be happier when you start to see progress.

Start something new

Whether you’ve been furloughed, working from home or still going out to work, we all have a lot more free time following the latest restrictions. Why not start a new hobby or learn a new skill? With restaurants and bars closing in my area I have taken the opportunity to put my culinary skills to the test, experimenting with new foods and flavours I had never even heard of before this year. Trialling new recipes and feeding my family my new creations has been so much fun, although my boyfriend isn’t the easiest person to impress in the kitchen. Just get creative and dive straight into something new, you might surprise yourself!

Plan a holiday

Okay so this may a tricky one given the current situation but that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a break. Having something to look forward to fills our minds with a sense of purpose and allows us to switch off from the stresses of every day. Book some time off work to sit back and relax, even at home. Take this time to unwind and spend time with loved ones to bring your mind back to a state of calmness and happiness.

Retail therapy

I don’t know about you, but every time the postman comes knocking on my door with a

parcel with my name on it, I momentarily get super excited. Shopping, for me, is my happy place. Although the stores are closed in my area, my internet browser is always open, and

I often like to treat myself to a well-earned present. At the moment I am all about the #SupportSmall businesses. They need our help the most during these challenging times, so why not treat yourself to a gift that will bring happiness to you and them.

For me, 2021 is all about positivity, working together and good vibes. I hope my January Blues tips help you as much as they have helped me. Onwards and upwards from here, peace out for now x