How does it feel? 8 ways to banish the Winter blues

Apparently, today is Blue Monday. No, it’s not a celebration of the tune by the band New Order. It’s the day of the year that Britons feel the most miserable.

Blue Monday is the most depressing day of the year.

Of course, we're all different. so it is an average. How do you feel today?

Originally conceived by Sky Travel, the date of Blue Monday (typically the third Monday in January) is arrived at by a complex formula created by academic Dr Chris Arnall that considers factors such as post-Christmas debt, the weather, low motivational levels and time since failing on those New Year’s resolutions we all make.

But fear not. Let’s make the day as positive as we can. Never ones to get down in the dumps, the Larkfleet Homes team has come up with a few suggestions to help you banish the winter blues.

1. Get as much natural light as you can. Get out doors as much as possible and take steps to let as much natural light as possible into your home.  Keep the curtains and blinds open and cut back any foliage or plants which block light.
2. Try and have as healthy a diet as possible. Consider dietary supplements that can boost moods. Get some daily exercise, reduce your caffeine and alcohol intake and get regular sleep at night. But don’t forget the old adage that a little of what you fancy does you good – you’re not a Spartan.
3. Book a holiday and enjoy some winter sun. If you can’t go on holiday, now’s the time to plan your summer holiday. Looking at all those pictures of bright blues skies and sun-kissed beaches should help to lift your spirits.
4. Curl up with a good book – something positive and inspiring – or settle down to watch a favourite film.
5. Brighten up your home with flowers. Your best choice is orange as research has shown that longer wavelength (orange) light has a positive effect on mood and cognitive function.
6. Giving your self something to look forward to will help to keep you positive. Organise a social event with family and friends. Or, plan a weekend activity.
7. Keeping warm will help to keep the blues at bay. Feeling cold makes us feel miserable, we think you’ll agree. Wrap up warm. Have hot drinks and keep your home heated as much as possible.
8. Do something creative or indulge in your favourite hobby. That should distract you from the negative aspects of the season.

Whatever you do be positive and remember – Spring isn’t far away – some Spring flowers are already bringing a splash of colour to front gardens and roadsides up and down the country.