As the New Year kicks in, so might a touch of depression. January is the most depressing month of the year. Over indulgence, burnt out credit cards, a distinct lack of daylight and no holidays until Easter all adds up to the New Year blues. But instead of letting them take you over, try these 5 tips to revitalise your spirits and keep the blues at bay:
Nudge your diet into shape by eating at least 5 portions of fruit and veg a day. Harder than it sounds but with a stir fry, soup, meat and TWO veg, raw veg as snacks and an apple on the go, you can set the trend with a depression free diet.
Get your daily sunshine. Vitamin D is the sun’s gift to us and a walk will top up your levels. Or, take a supplement.
Calm your mind. A racing mind creates anxiety which upsets your feel good hormones so take a breath and release your negative thoughts.
Exercise has been proven to reduce depression so get your ideas flowing. It doesn’t mean you need to hit the gym every day, digging the garden or a jog gets the results too.
Get a good night’s sleep and let your body heal itself.
So, if you manage a fruit smoothy, meat and two veg and a salad - a 30 minute walk whilst practicing mindful breathing and then get an early night, you tick all the right boxes!
Happy New Year!