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Beat the January blues: How to stay positive & healthy at work

By Paperstone on January 14, 2025 in Uncategorized

Ah, January – the month that feels like an endless Monday. The festive decorations are packed away, days are short, and we’re back at our desks, trying to remember our passwords. Sometimes it’s hard to stay positive. If you’re feeling a bit down, you’re not alone. Let’s look at how can you beat those January blues, boost your well-being, and keep the positivity flowing.

What are the January blues?

Beat the January Blues even when the weather is miserable

According to an article by UK Therapy Guide, it’s described as the slump many experience after the holiday high. And it’s more common than you think.

Blue Monday, and why it’s so hard to stay positive

There’s a day nicknamed “Blue Monday”, which is the 3rd Monday of January, and this is often when these “blue” feelings peak. Between resolutions fading, money running thin, and the weather being gloomy (especially in the Northern hemisphere), this makes for a very sad period for a lot of people.

Tips to beat the January blues, improve well-being and stay positive

Get moving

Physical activity is a natural mood booster. Whether it’s a brisk walk during lunch or a morning yoga session, moving your body can help shake off that sluggish feeling. It might sound odd, but even doing a few squats in the bathroom when you go for a toilet-break is enough to dust off those cobwebs.

Soak up natural light

Daylight is in short supply, but try to catch some rays when you can. A quick walk outside, even if it’s not sunny, can help increase vital hormone levels and give you a boost of positivity.

At Paperstone, we have the perfect reason for going outside – our office dog, Wilfy.

Plus, simply stroking, or spending time with an animal is proven to decrease stress levels and improve mental well-being.

If you’re not able to get outside, BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) recommend that you make the space that you’re in is as bright and airy as possible.

Beat the January Blues with an office dog

Stay connected

As tempting as it may be to shut out the world and stay indoors wrapped up on the sofa under a blanket, social interaction has huge benefits. A chat with colleagues, friends or family can lift your spirits and provide support; be it in person or via video.

Invest in cheerful stationery

Add some sunshine to your day by investing in some bright, colourful stationery.

Set small goals

Instead of overwhelming yourself with big resolutions, set achievable daily or weekly goals. This makes it easier to maintain motivation. Having big plans and goals are great, but you don’t want to set yourself up for failure. Try tracking your progress in a journal.

Practice mindfulness

Techniques like meditation or deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress and keep you grounded. Headspace and Calm are great tools to help you get started on your mindfulness journey.

Limit alcohol and caffeine

Both alcohol and caffeine can affect your mood and energy levels. If you don’t feel like you can give up alcohol or caffeine completely, try reducing your intake or replacing some drinks with water. Or how about trying a low-alcohol/caffeine free alternative. Even small changes make a big difference.

Healthier food and drink to help us stay positive and healthy
Beat the January Blues and ask for support

Get the support you need to beat the January blues

If you feel like you need extra support, you can access counselling through your local GP, or the NHS. Alternatively, the BACP can offer some private options (they have a handy search tool on their website).

Final thoughts on beating the January blues

It might feel tough to stay positive in a month like January, but with a few mindful steps, you can turn it into a month of renewal and growth. Focus on small, positive changes, and remember – spring is just around the corner!

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