How to Beat the January Blues

It can be tough to beat the January blues. The dark, cold weather can trigger a very draining mental health condition known as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), resulting in lethargy and low mood.

It’s also the time of year for the post-Christmas slump. The parties are over and we’re left with very little in our calendar (and our bank accounts). 

So, how can you conjure up positive feelings to get through this tough time? In this article, B&M provides a handy guide on how to lift your mood after Christmas and New Year.

Keep Fit and Stay Active

Most of us overindulge during the Christmas period, resulting in feelings of guilt and general sluggishness. Why not fight off the winter blues with a little physical activity? 

Exercise releases endorphins - happy hormones - that will help you tackle your low mood.

B&M Top Tip: Start small with a brisk walk and a few at-home resistance exercises or go all out and join a gym or start weight training with dumbells whether fitness is one of your New Year's resolutions or not.

Find a New Hobby

Developing a skill is a great way to improve wellbeing and motivation. From knitting to painting to hula-hooping, it can cost very little to start a hobby, and you might just impress yourself!

Declutter Your Home

Our surroundings can affect our mental state massively. The good news is that it’s really easy to get your house in order - and it can be pretty addictive once you’ve started!

Why not have a ruthless clear-out? Once you’re done, you’ll feel like there's more space to breathe.

B&M Top Tip: Investing in clever and attractive storage solutions is a great place to begin.

Spend Time with Others

Hanging out with friends is a great way to beat the January blues. It doesn’t need to cost - simply gather at someone’s home to enjoy a few board games, movies or other fun activities. Your spirits will be lifted in no time.

B&M Top Tip: Combine fitness and socialising by going out for a beautiful winter walk with loved ones for that extra feel good factor.

Give Your Home a Makeover

Making your surroundings look beautiful can help to inject that little bit of extra positivity you need to face the grim weather outside.

B&M Top Tip: Simply changing up a few minor accessories can make all the difference.

Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Self-care is vital all year round, and one of the key elements is sleep. Avoid screen time late in the evening and treat yourself to fresh, clean sheets and nightclothes whenever you can.

Take time to relax and try meditating to let go of the stresses of the day before climbing into bed. 

B&M Top Tip: If you’re struggling to drift off, stick to the exact same bedtime every night - at least for a while. This is a great way to condition yourself into feeling tired at the right time.

So: how to survive the January blues? Start by challenging yourself to improve your health and expand your skill set, then reach out to friends and loved ones. Next, turn your attention to your surroundings, and finally, give your sleeping pattern an overhaul. You’ll feel much better for it.

Check out our Health & Wellbeing range for superb, affordable products to help you start feeling like yourself again.

What are your tips on taking on the New Year with positivity? Share them with the B&M Community via Twitter, Facebook or Instagram?