Ways To Treat Yourself And Beat The Winter Blues

January can be a difficult time of the year for many people, especially those of us who live in the northern hemisphere. The temperatures are cold, the weather is wet, the mornings are dark, and the days are short. Plus, the excitement of Christmas and New Year has passed, and work has started once again. Luckily, there are lots of effective ways to cope with these winter blues, for instance by treating yourself to an indulgent gift or experience. Don't worry, it doesn't mean you have to spend a lot of money (after all, many of us are broke in January, too!). Read on for some ideas to get you inspired.

Indulge in a little retail therapy

Was there a present you were hoping to get for Christmas but didn’t? Why not buy it as a new year's gift to yourself! Or perhaps there’s something you want that will improve one of the presents you did get, such as a range of essential oils for a new diffuser. Whether it's confidence-boosting see through lingerie or a smart new coat, treat yourself to a little retail therapy as a way to banish the blues. The only caveat is not to spend too much or buy items you don't truly love, in order to avoid any post-shopping spree guilt!

Have a day at the spa – or bring the spa to you

Spending a day at the spa is the epitome of treating yourself, and a long hot bath is heavenly in this cold weather. So, grab a friend and have a pampering massage, facial, or other treatment of your choice together – you will soon feel those winter blues melting away. If you can’t make it to a spa due to time or cost, you can always set up your own spa experience at home. Buy some luxurious bath products, light a few relaxing scented candles, and open a bottle of wine to enjoy as you soak in the bathtub with a good book.

Cook your favorite meal

Eating our favorite foods can be a very effective way to boost feelings of comfort and happiness, so if you've got a spare evening why not give it a go? It could be an old family recipe you enjoyed when you were a child, or a new meal you learned how to make last week – as long as it makes you happy, that’s what counts. For an extra mood boost, put on a playlist of your favorite songs to listen to as you cook. If making an entire meal fills you with apprehension, don't worry – you can get the same effect by ordering your favorite takeout or baking a dessert that you love.

Take a trip away for the weekend

Sometimes the best way to banish the blues is with a change of scenery. Of course, it's wonderful if you can fly to a far-flung tropical destination, but even a trip to the next town over can work. Staying in a different location can be an effective way to break your routine and change your perspective, plus you might find hotel rates more affordable in the chilly off-season. Spend time soaking up the sights in a new city, or simply visiting new coffee shops, bars, stores and restaurants. You mind even find a warm feeling of comfort and familiarity waiting for you when you return home.

Set aside some ‘me time’

The hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be exhausting, especially for introverts. If that sounds like you, the best way to treat yourself this January might be simply to give yourself some time, peace, and quiet. For example, you could curl up with that new novel you've been wanting to read, binge-watch a TV series, bring out a jigsaw puzzle, or engage in a creative hobby such as drawing or playing a musical instrument. Whatever helps you to feel centered and ready to face the world! Another top tip is to try some mindfulness practice, such as meditation, breathing exercises or journaling.

Spend quality time with loved ones

For some people, the reason January feels so blue is the sudden change from having lots of friends and family around to being alone again. In which case, rather than having time to yourself you might want to organize some quality time with the people you love. Invite your best friend over for dinner or arrange to meet people for a drink or meal out. Alternatively, if you have family living nearby you could drop in and see them. When visiting in person isn't possible, you always have the option of a phone or video call instead. Even a 10-minute chat is sure to brighten your mood!