Nimi Notes: 10 Simple Ways… To Beat The January Blues!

For many, January isn't alway a great month, particularly the first few weeks. Many people suffer from what is called the 'January Blues' and while a new year has started, it's also time for many new realities to come to the surface… that can leave you feeling a little down!

So what are the January Blues? Firstly its horrid outside!! It's cold, dark, overly rainy and depressingly gloomy- it's pretty hard to get excited about leaving the house when that is what you are faced with!

January means, festive season is over, back to work, and back to the gym!! Over Christmas we've overeaten, over-drank and overindulged (nothing wrong with that!), but now there are no excuses for this, and the reality is that routine must set in again. Statistically December is the 'stressiest' month of the year, but for many, it's January. And why not? There's Christmas debts to pay, credit cards to pay off and theres way more to organise, such as how you are going to wake up at 6am again after spending the holiday season casually rolling out of bed at 9/10am (lie-in!!). So this can make people uneasy and stressed, understandably. And lastly, maybe you left a great year behind that you don't actually want to forget in a hurry and the thought of a new year means at some point getting a year older or there are things you know you have to get done this year; that can be pretty worrying.

Here are 10 simple ways you can beat these January Blues and pick yourself up!

1. Treat yourself in the sales

Chances are that gorgeous dress you wanted before Christmas is now in the sale, so treat yourself a little. Finding that great sale item is always a victory! I found the Topshop leather skater skirt I've been wanting for ages in the sales- winning!! And if you can't stand the rush, sit at home with a cuppa and do some online sale shopping.

2. Get back into your fitness and beauty regime, or start one!

The great thing about starting a new year is that it's often that boost to actually start something new. You often hear people say "I'll start this is January", and ooh here's January! So make a conscious effort to devise a fitness plan that you can stick to. Write up your fitness and health goals and how you are going to get there. It will make you feel confident and motivated. In terms of beauty, throw out that bad habit and invest more time in taking care of yourself. My advice is always 'Cleanse, tone, moisturise!'

3. Make time to pamper yourself and sleep well

People love Christmas because it's often a time to relax and indulge. There is no reason why that has to stop when the holiday season is over. Set aside one evening a week where you will really pamper yourself and relax. Sleep is the key to feeling ultimately refreshed, so make sure to get plenty of rest so you can wake up feeling happy and motivated.

4. Try something new, or keep going with something you're good at and improve

Learn a new skill, an instrument, a language, start a blog or even try to be more organised than last year! Keep yourself challenged so that you have goals. This ties in well with making new years resolutions- stick to them! Expand your talents and keep going with things you are good at.

5. When the sun is shining, get outside

Contrary to most peoples beliefs', the sun does shine in January! It may be gloomy, but the sun is there somewhere. When it's out, get outside and enjoy it. Go for a walk or run and even so, just enjoy what the winter season has to offer.

6. Try a new beauty product or get glammed up

Have a night out with your mates where you get dolled up and you're wearing your new dress you found in the sales! Get your hair done, try a new look for the new year and go out and show it off! If there's a beauty product I really wanted last year that I didn't get, I know I'm going to get it this year!

7. Eat more energy-boosting foods, and eat breakfast!

Apparently those that skip breakfast are way more cranky than those who do- really?! Yes it's true! Breakfast is by far the most important meal of the day; it gets your mind and body going, boosts your energy and has actually shown to prevent unhealthy eating habits throughout the day. Generally in the day, drink plenty of water and eat foods that are healthy and energy-boosting. You'll feel much better!

Many feel that now the holidays are over, there is nothing more to look forward to. In this case, make plans! Start organising that weekend away or even your summer holiday. Schedule in mini breaks here and there so you have things to look forward to. Make an effort to socialise more and see family and friends.

There is nothing like a spring clean to start the new year! But why not redecorate? Whether it's your living room, bedroom or even your university room, spruce it up. Redecorating is fun and brings out your creative side.

10. Ask yourself why you're feeling down and solve it

Problems are best solved head on, so ask yourself what's really up and try and solve it. Mentally figure out what changes you can make and then start solving each one. Even make a list- completing things will seem like little victories. Focus on what needs your attention and vow to make this year a year you will get things done and make changes!