Beating the winter blues
Some ideas to help you beat the winter blues:
Get outside - getting some fresh air and exposing yourself to daylight is an ideal way to invigorate your mind and body. Wrap up warm, and push yourself to do it, even when it all feels like too much effort. I promise you will be glad you did it.
Get active - when you're feeling lethargic, it's too easy to just "veg" on the sofa. The trouble is the less you do, the less you want to do. Go on, jump up and get moving. And, by that, I don't mean signing up for a gym membership you know you're not going to use - choose something you've always fancied and set yourself a goal to go regularly. Something like dancing is a fantastic choice - you get to meet new people, listen to new music, and somehow it just doesn't feel like exercise!
Keep warm - it's hard if money is a bit tight, but don't skimp on keeping warm. Being cold can make you feel depressed, so layer up and keep your home warm.
Diet - whilst January is a very popular time for setting goals to lose weight, it's also common for people to throw in the towel quickly and feel bad for failing. Even if you do want to lose weight, think about putting this off until February/March when you feel more positive and Spring is in sight. But do try to eat healthily. No need to give up treats, but make sure you have lots of veggies too.
Hobby - keep talking about trying a new hobby? Give it a go... you never know, you could love it and soon be kicking yourself you didn't take it up before. Rather than January being a month of abstinence, make it the month for exciting new things...
Get social - just because the party season is over, doesn't mean you can't keep dates to see family and friends. Having people to talk to, and laugh with, is essential in helping to beat depression.
Look forward - try and get some things in the diary for you to look forward to - a project in your home, book your Summer holiday, browse the internet and magazines for a new look... you get the idea.
Look at the light - if you think you might be suffering from SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), then consider investing in a light box. Studies show that sitting in front of a light box for 30 minutes per day can be very effective. Talk to your doctor for more advice.