How To Beat The January Blues

So we've all dragged ourselves out of bed for the second working week of the year, when really all we want to do is lounge around at home eating the remains of our Christmas chocolate and watching our favourite Netflix series. The January Blues can hit some people really hard, and can be difficult to shift, especially whilst it's still cold and miserable outside. Here are ten things you can do to give yourself a boost at this time of year.

1. Write a gratitude list If you're feeling a bit down in the dumps, writing a list of all of the things you are grateful for can be a great way to boost your mood. Thinking of all the things that have made you happy recently can leave you with a much more positive outlook on how things currently are - a reminder that things aren't all that bad. I did something similar with my Happy List here.

2. Start a new healthy routine If we feel physically good, it can make a huge difference to how we are feeling mentally. With everyone making their New Years resolutions, now is a great time to embark upon a healthier lifestyle. A short exercise routine is a great mood booster.

3. Have a pamper night This is a great one if it's a horrible winters night outside. Having a nice relaxing candlelit bath, followed by wrapping yourself up warm whilst treating yourself using your favourite beauty products is a great way to feel cosy and happy during winter.

4. Make plans Is there something you promised yourself you'd do this year? Use this time to make your plan of action. Don't know what it is you want to do? You could decide that now! I don't know about you, but when I've got something big that I want to do, I always like to make a list to break it down into smaller tasks, making it less daunting. If you have a blog too, this would be a great time to sit down and make plans for your blogging year ahead.

5. Have a clear out There's nothing better than walking into a nice tidy room, so if you're facing a bit too much clutter at the moment, have a rummage through and see what you can get rid of - you could even make some money out of it if you wanted! Why wait til spring for the big clean?! Now is the perfect time, to make room for your Christmas gifts.

6. Get outside Obviously not the nicest thing to do if it's murky and wet outside, but a nice gentle walk on a crisp winter day could be just the thing you need to clear your head. Stop off in a coffee shop to warm yourself up en route if it's a little chilly.

7. Get together with loved ones Having those you hold special around you is guaranteed to make you feel better - it's what I love so much about Christmas time. Invite someone round for a catch up, or organise a night out for a group of you. It doesn't have to be anything costly, just quality time spent with those you loved will make you feel much happier than being holed up alone.

8. Make sure you get enough sleep This one is so important for both physical and mental health. If we don't get enough sleep it can really affect our mood, and we are more likely to want to lounge around rather than getting about and doing things. Ensure you are going to bed at a reasonable time and your body will thank you for it.

9. Try something new If there's something you've always thought would be really fun to do, but never got round to doing it, now would be a great time to start. Whether it's learning a new skill, taking up a sport, or going somewhere you've never been before. Creating new experiences for ourselves gives us something positive to reflect on, and could even open new doors for you.

10. Treat yourself This doesn't have to be anything particularly pricey, maybe a new book or a nail polish. If it's something you've had on your wishlist for a while, making that cheeky purchase will for sure brighten your mood. Of course, make sure it's something you can afford before you buy it, or this could end up having a negative effect longer term.

What do you do to beat the January Blues?