Now that the excitement and holiday celebrations are over, and it's back to the daily grind, many us begin to feel bored and glum. The harsh cold and gloomy days don't help much, either!
If you feel like you're suffering from the January blues, these helpful tips will cure your seasonal sadness.
Plan a trip
What makes you happier than a vacation? Getting away from your daily routine, especially during the cold winter months, is a surefire way to boost your mood and create happiness. Studies even suggest that anticipating a trip increases excitement levels more than actually experiencing it. If you don't have the money or vacation time for a tropical getaway, you can always plan an affordable weekend or overnight trip to a nearby city for a fun change of scenery.
Fill your scheduleKeeping busy doing things you enjoy will prevent you from feeling sluggish and blue. Connect with your friends, plan fun get-togethers, and fill your calendar with events you can look forward to. Make lunch dates, get tickets to a concert, or just plan a night in with movies, snacks and drinks if you're on a tight budget.
Start exercisingIf you don't already have a workout regimen, now is the time to start! Even if you aren't interested in setting fitness goals, daily exercise is proven to improve your mood and increase endorphins--the brain chemicals responsible for happiness. If it's too cold for a daily run, you can get workout DVDs to use right in your own home, or join a local gym. Most gyms offer discounted memberships this time of year.
Avoid social mediaStudies suggest that voyeurism via social media can actually increase depression and feelings of inadequacy--if everyone else seems to be enjoying life, it can make you feel greater dissatisfaction with your own. If you find yourself scrolling through your Facebook or Instagram feed multiple times a day, try to limit your use if you can't imagine quitting altogether.
Get a blue lightA
blue light is a device made to help those afflicted with Seasonal Affective Disorder--also known as SAD--by counteracting the body-clock disruption caused by low levels of sunlight in the winter. Meant to mimic the effects of a sunny sky, a blue light claims to boost mood, improve sleep, and increase energy.
Get some fresh airIt may be cold outside, but getting even just a few minutes of fresh air during the day can lift your spirits. If you're stuck in a fluorescent-lit office all day long, it can create feelings of lethargy quickly. Step outside briefly several times throughout the day to experience a little natural light and take a few breaths of brisk January air.