The Top Ten Tips for Staying Cheerful in January and February
After the festive season is over and before spring arrives, many people feel down. For some, the cold weather and shortened daylight hours can lead to very bad moods and a profound lack of optimism about the future. However, there are things you can to help improve your chances of staying upbeat. Keep the following top ten tips in mind if you want to improve your mood and bear the winter blues this January and February.
1) Stay active It is easy to stop getting as much exercise in winter, as the weather is not really suitable for many outdoor sports or active pursuits. However, don’t let this stop you from exercising; exercise releases chemicals called endorphins that help to bolster mood and increase your sense of well-being. Try to find a nearby gym where you can work out, or simply opt to do workouts in your own home. For example, you might want to order an aerobics DVD, or start learning yoga in the house.
2) Take advantage of the daylight Whenever you can, try to make sure that you spend some time outdoors. For example, you may choose to have a walk in the January 2019 | 50 + Living
park after work, or perhaps walk to the store instead of driving. Even a little exposure to the light could lift your spirits, and some places look beautiful in the colder seasons. With a thick coat and a warm scarf, you might find fifteen minutes outsides to be truly pleasant.
3) Plan for the summer It can be easier to wait out the unpleasant winter weather if you focus on the good things that are to come. Try investigating possible vacation destinations and looking at inspiring pictures of your destination. If possible, you can even book plane tickets or hotel rooms for your summer getaway. When your vacation plans are in place, it is just a matter of counting down the days until the sunshine is back in your life.
4) Don’t make unrealistic new year’s resolutions If you set yourself unachievable goals, it is easy to become depressed shortly after the new year begins. For example, if you tell yourself that you’re going to lose a stone within the first 2 weeks of January, you’re likely to be disappointed. However, continued on page 5 Page 3
