January can be a tough month for mental health, as the lack of daylight and cold weather can contribute to a low mood.
Now that the cheerful festive period has passed, it is important to have the tools to manage potential feelings of sadness.
A monologist has shared her tips to help combat the symptoms associated with the January Blues and feel overall more positive.
Donna Easton explained that preparing for potential sadness can help feel more comfortable and take in the positives of the winter season.
She told Hello! magazine: “Firstly, the season doesn’t have to take us by surprise. If we know we usually feel miserable during the upcoming months, we can preempt it.
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“Get prepared and make a little plan. Can you schedule in extra January work-from-home days?
“Can you invest in some Scandinavian hygge vibe fleecey throws and twinkly lighting for your home? Can you eat for the season and fill your body with rich, hearty food?”
The expert also recommended ignoring New Year’s resolutions, and instead, focusing on facing the upcoming months with a “fresh clean perspective”.
She added: “Right now, I am opting for that fresh school book feeling. Like the first day of term with new pens and a fresh clean perspective.
“January feels like starting a new chapter and giving life a reset. With my favourite guilty pleasure songs playing, I take the decorations down, clean my home, write important dates on my new calendar and feel thankful that the winter has gifted me time to hunker down and do the things that can set me up for the rest of the year.”
Other simple lifestyle changes that can help you improve your mood include exposing yourself to natural light, which boosts serotonin levels in the brain.
Engaging in regular exercise is one of the most effective ways to enhance well-being.
A brisk walk with friends provides fresh air and triggers the release of endorphins, promoting a positive mood.
Maintaining a proper diet is crucial for mood regulation, as poor dietary choices, common when feeling down, can lead to overeating or undereating.
