January Blues

Published: 11/01/2023

The January Blues

Now the Festive period is over, it seems that many of us are feeling down and unmotivated; this is known as the January Blues. Everyone heads into the New Year with the best intentions and promises you've made to yourself, and with everyone discussing their News Years Resolutions, it's easy to get caught up in it all. But, as morning and evenings are dark and we are spending most of our time indoors, it is completely normal for you not to feel like yourself at the moment.

How do you know if you've got the January Blues?

- Do you feel sad and like you are hibernating?
- Do you have a lack of motivation? Even for the most simplest of tasks?
- Are you having trouble sleeping?
- Are you spending far more time in bed that normal?

How do you deal with January Blues?

- Seek the sun - Despite the weather being awful at the moment, when it's dry, try and get out when you can, whether it's popping to the shops or out for a walk.
- Try to adopt a regular sleeping pattern - Try and be stricter with going to bed at the same time everyday; it's easy for us to stay up late watching TV or on our phones scrolling, but going to bed and waking up at the same time everyday can help stabilise our body clocks and help us feel motivated for the following day.
- Exercise Daily - Exercising releases something called 'Endorphins' which makes us feel good. Whether it's a dog walk or a walk around the shops; aim for 30 minutes a day when you can take some time out of your day, away from work, to exercise. You should notice an instant improvement in your energy levels and your mood.
- Eat a Balanced Diet - I'm sure many of us can agree that we've eaten more sweets and chocolates than we should've - but we shouldn't feel guilty about it, it's Christmas! But if you're trying to shake off this sluggish feeling, try eating a little bit better. Top tip: Although there is a lack of sunlight, try and eat foods rich in Vitamin D (fish, egg yolks, mushrooms, milk and orange juice).
- Consider Vitamin D Supplements: It is best to maintain your Vitamin D levels through the winter months and with the lack of sunlight we are definitely all lacking Vitamin D. Although it is best to maintain our Vitamin D levels through direct sunlight and our diet, supplements are also a great way to get some Vitamin D into your body. Vitamin D is known for regulating our mood and reducing depression.

Please remember that if you are feeling down and unmotivated at the moment; that is completely normal. Just remember that everyone in the Right at Home Solent office is here for you. If you'd like to talk to one of us, please call the office on 01329 233755; we are always here.