5 WAYS TO BEAT THE JANUARY BLUES

January Blues is often associated with feeling low in both mood and energy, lacking in motivation and feeling like you want to hibernate. The weather is still dark and we have just had the highs of Christmas and New Year, so it is no wonder that we can feel a little less than our best as we head into the start of a new year. 

The good news is that exercise is a great way to beat the blues away, and building healthy habits is a stellar way to start the year. Whether you want to improve your overall health and fitness, boost your mood or set some wellness goals for the year ahead, here are five ways you can get moving and wave those blues goodbye. 

Stretch it out 

Yoga is a great way to move your body and slow your mind, offering you mindful moments of movement throughout the practice. You don’t need to be able to touch your toes or get your legs above your head, and a search for ‘yoga for beginners’ on YouTube will bring up a whole range of ways you can get moving. 

Walk with a friend 

Pick up the phone and arrange a scenic walk with a friend you might not have seen for a while. The end of the year gets busy, so having time and space to reconnect can be refreshing. Or, if you want to meet someone new, perhaps ask a neighbour if they fancy a stroll, or strike up a conversation with someone while on a solo walk. 

The Runner’s High 

Head out on a run this January, perhaps even give Couch to 5K a try, and chase that coveted Runner’s High. A deep state of relaxing euphoria that washes over you after you’ve finished a run, there is no feeling quite like it, and it makes the pounding of the pavement more than worth it.

Group Hikes 

Heading out into the great outdoors is, of course, one of our favourite activities. A group hike is a great way to see new sights and spend the day with like minded people. Gather your friends or head onto EventBrite or facebook to find organised hikes, and who knows, you may even find your new tribe. 

Take a dip

Cold water therapy is known for its mental health benefits; it can activate the sympathetic nervous system and release endorphins, so whether it’s a cold shower or a dip in cold water, you can start reaping the benefits this January. Please consult a medical professional if you have any health queries about cold water dipping, and make sure that you are dipping safely and are aware of any contraindications.