6 Ways To Beat The January Blues

The holiday season is the high point of the year for many people. Weeks of festivities, travelling, indulgent meals and time spent with loved ones. But after any high comes the inevitable comedown which often lands squarely in January.

The ‘January Blues’ is a term used to describe feelings of sadness, low energy and even mild depression that some experience during this time. A variety of factors contribute to these feelings: the post-holiday letdown, returning to work or school after a break, shorter, darker days and financial stress from holiday spending. Getting back into a fitness routine can help combat these feelings by providing structure, boosting mood and reigniting motivation.

If you’re feeling the weight of January, incorporating fitness can be a powerful way to bounce back to bring energy and joy. Investing in a new gym can make a world of difference — here are some tips to help you get started…

Get outside

The weather isn’t always ideal, but spending just a few minutes outside in natural light and fresh air can make a great difference. Lack of sunlight in the winter can lead to Vitamin D deficiency, which is linked to low mood. Sunlight not only will boost this but also helps regulate your sleep cycle. So embrace the sunshine when it appears and make the most of it — perhaps with an outdoor run or walk to kickstart your day.

Exercise at home or the gym

Physical exercise is one of the most effective ways to combat sadness and January is the perfect time to establish your fitness routine. Whether you’re lifting weights, joining in with fitness classes or tackling cardio workouts, hitting the gym is a great way to release endorphins to build a positive mindset.

But sometimes working in your own space can really help build confidence! Pick up a pair of dumbbells, jump on a cable machine or grab a barbell to make your gym the best it can be. Doesn’t matter who you’re with, how much you lift or how long you have left on a machine, it’s your gym! So find the best fitness equipment for you and start training now!

Stay connected through fitness

Social connections are vital for mental well-being and combining them with fitness can make it even better. Train with a friend or join a fitness group to stay motivated together. Sharing your fitness journey not only holds you to your goals but makes the experience more enjoyable. If you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, venting during a gym session or a walk with your friend can be incredibly therapeutic.

Set fun fitness goals

Having something to look forward to can brighten even the gloomiest days. Why not set a fun fitness goal for January? It could be running a 5K run, mastering a new yoga pose or trying out a new piece of gym equipment. Having goals adds structure to your routine and gives you a sense of accomplishment. Remember, you should always prioritise the small goals — even planning a group workout session or a solo challenge will help you stay focused and uplifted.

Practice fitness-focused self-care

Self-care goes hand-in-hand with fitness. After a workout, recovery, hydration and nutritious meals are sure to fuel your body. Whether you’re making a post-workout shake or warming down after an intense workout, it will help reduce muscle tension and stress.

Try something new

Sometimes the best way to break out of a rut is to switch things up. Explore a new fitness class, invest in some new equipment or challenge yourself to a workout style outside your comfort zone — maybe HIIT, Pilates or kettlebell training. This can help reignite your enthusiasm and discover new ways to enjoy staying active.

Alternatively, join a community challenge or event. Boot camps, group runs or virtual workout competitions will not only provide motivation but also help you achieve your fitness goals. Stay on track now and connect with others through your journey.

Final thoughts

The January blues are a common and normal phenomenon — a natural part of the human experience. If you’re feeling low, remember to be patient with yourself. Creating a routine is a powerful way to lift your spirits, boost energy and start the year strong! Soon enough, you’ll be back on track and ready to smash your way through the year ahead.

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