For many January brings a fresh start and an opportunity to tackle the year ahead with a new mind-set. But even the best of us can suffer a “winter depression” leaving even the most outgoing feeling a little bit blue.

Grey skies, cold temperatures and little sunlight leave us feeling like we’d quite like to crawl back under the duvet each morning. Over the Christmas period we may have indulged a little too much, now leaving us sluggish and a little out of sorts. So as a solution to help get you get back on track, we’ve listed our top 10 tips to beat those January blues.

Exercise

Taking the time to exercise a couple of times a week can have great health benefits not only for your body, but for your mind too. Walks, runs or even a workout at home release endorphins in your body which leave us feeling full of energy and much happier. If that’s not enough of a reason, it’s also a great way to start a new hobby!

Plan a trip away

What better way to perk up your January than booking a holiday or trip away for something to look forward to. Perhaps an English break or somewhere abroad where you can catch the sun.

Take time out

After a hectic festive period, we often forget that our bodies need some time to recover from the busy schedule. Have a duvet day and relax in your TV bed with your favourite film or new Christmas present box set.

Get together with friends and family

Sometimes the best medicine when you’re feeling blue is to spend time with those who mean the most to you. Gather your family in your home for a night in of games or cuddle up on the sofa with a loved one to beat the winter slump.

Get outdoors

If you work a 9-5 and have little opportunity to make the most of the daylight, then ensure you make the most of those precious hours of winter daylight on the weekend. Get as much natural sunlight as possible by dusting off your walking boots and seeing some of the beautiful countryside.

Eat better

Increase your fruit and vegetable intake and put away those Christmas chocolates; fill your body with nutrient dense foods for a healthier start to the year. We often feel sluggish and run down when our diet isn’t at its best, so be mindful of your choices and you’ll soon start to feel the benefits.

Shopping trip

A day out with your friends, family or partner to spend those Christmas vouchers can be the perfect mood lifter. Indulge in some gifts for yourself on your shopping trip and be sure to stop off in a nice coffee shop for a warming treat.

Spa treatment

Relax and unwind by organising a visit to a spa for a facial or massage. The feeling of being pampered can often uplift your mood, leaving you feeling well and truly spoilt.

Acts of kindness

Being kind to others can have an effect on our own emotions. Whether it’s something simple as a complement to make someone else’s day, or perhaps volunteering your time to help out a charity, the little things can often make the biggest differences and make you feel great all at the same time.

Declutter

Organising your belongings is a therapeutic way to start the year. A clear home can lead to a clear mind, but be sure to start a room at a time rather than trying to tackle your whole home in one go to create a space you can truly relax in.