Ten top tips to beat the January blues
January can be a difficult time of year for many. With cold, grey days and post-Christmas indulgence putting a strain on waist lines and bank accounts, leaving many Brits feeling sluggish and underwhelmed.
The New Year can be the perfect opportunity to turn over a new leaf and look to the year ahead with fresh optimism, but research has showed that nearly 90% of people in the UK fail to stick to New Year’s resolutions set each year.
Fortunately there are a number of things that can be done to combat the January blues without setting unachievable goals and falling at the first hurdle. Two Together Railcard has come up with ten top tips for ensuring a fresh new start in 2016 that won’t break the bank.
1) Try a hot new workout
After four weeks of glitter-infused parties and indulging in festive food, mulled wine and Christmassy cocktails, it’s no wonder that many feel lethargic when the New Year comes around. However, 2016 could be the year you get fit and eat healthier without cutting out your favourite treats. If joining an expensive gym (Equinox, anyone?) isn’t an option – go for a run in Hyde Park, take up a sport or go for a brisk walk in the country to help get back into shape.
Don’t force yourself to do forms of exercising you hate! This way it won’t become a chore and you’re more likely to stick to it. If you don’t like the gym things like boxercise, spinning, group HIIT workouts and swimming are all great!
2) Make plans – take a trip
Once the memory of Christmas has faded it’s important to have something to look forward to, whether it’s Ryan Gosling movie nights, lovely sales shopping, a weekend away or even a short break in the UK. Travel as a pair by train with the Two Together Railcard to receive a third off for two named passengers, as well as exclusive discounts on a number of UK holidays.
3) Out with the old —eat well
If you make your food delicious and add variety to your meals you’re more likely to enjoy it and stick to it! Forget fad diets and gruelling detox regimes – adopting a healthy balanced diet and eating treats in moderation will provide a more realistic and achievable lifestyle for 2016.
Try and stick to whole food sources and avoid any processed foods. Things like meats, fish, eggs, nuts, grains, fruit & vegetables are all much better for you and can taste amazing too.
Keep your breakfasts high in protein & healthy fats as this will encourage fat burning. Breakfasts including avocado, whole eggs, smoked salmon & nut butter.
4) Be sociable
Whether it’s seeing friends and family more, or getting out and about, one great way of beating the January blues is to spend more time with loved ones, or even make some new friends in the process.
5) Get a good night’s sleep
A sure fire way to feel better about the New Year is to catch up on sleep. Establishing a regular pattern of seven to eight hours per night and keeping bedtime and waking times consistent will help recharge the batteries.
6) Save money
Many Brits feel the financial strain of the festive season, so keeping an eye on spending can really help keep the bank balance in check in 2016. Put a bit of money aside each week to help keep on top of finances after an expensive Christmas.
7) Embrace the great outdoors – have a day out
From museums and art galleries to theme parks and castles, the UK has lots to offer for a great day out. Take a walk in the countryside or visit one of the UK’s many free attractions for a trip that won’t break the bank.
8) Take up a hobby
What time is it? It’s ‘me-time’! 2016 is arriving with a big bang, and this is the perfect time to invest in yourself: take up a hobby or try a new experience. Whether it’s horse-riding, Zumba or mountain biking, there are hundreds of fun activities that can be done on a budget.
9) Be positive
It can be difficult to feel positive in cold, grey January, but smiling can help lift moods and spread positivity to others. Starting the morning with a smile and a stretch can set the day off on a positive note and help bring a little happiness to the New Year.
10) Treat a loved one
Whether it’s a luxury spa day, a trip to the theatre, or an exciting weekend away for two, treating a loved one to something special can help anyone forget their January blues.
