We have already reached that time of year where many have (apparently) fallen off the wagon and given up on their new year’s resolutions.
But not you – right? Because you are committed to change.
The thing is, January can be a tough month.
For those of us in the northern hemisphere, it’s cold, it’s dark and it feels so long.
What I want to share with you today, is that the single, most important thing you can do for yourself every day is to FEEL GOOD.
That’s it! Choose to FEEL GOOD every day.
But it’s easier said than done, I know… so here’s a few tips to help you stay ‘upbeat’ if your mood darkens through the cold winter months.
Wake up positive
You have the power to set up your day in any way you like, and you should do what makes you feel good.
Most people wake up, stumble out the door, sit in an office for eight hours, come home, eat dinner, watch television, and pass out. That is NOT living! Where is the magic in that?
Be sure to get a good night’s sleep. Turning off all electronic devices at least one hour before bed, will help you get a more restful night.
And why not get rid of that shrill alarm clock too and wake up more gently.
Take some time to enjoy breakfast before you rush off to start your day. Even if you only have coffee, that’s ok – but take 5-10 mins to sit down, enjoy the moment and the coffee.
Connect
When feeling low, one of the fastest ways to pick yourself up is to connect with the people you know who inspire and energize you.
So, call that friend and re-connect.
Journal
Write down your feelings.
Often, simply becoming aware of what we’re feeling helps prevent us from being consumed by them. Even if you feel powerless to break out of a funk, just admitting to yourself can limit the impact and bring it to a close.
Prepare a Photobook
Why not prepare a photobook of your favourite moments.
I’m a huge fan of a physical/photobook, but if that is not your thing.. how about you create an album in your phone. Add to it, photos of all those in your life you love. Next, the images that transport you to a time and place where you felt carefree and happy.
Keep adding images to the album.
If you hit a slump at any time of the year, this could be a lifesaver.
Read a book or watch a movie
Both have the power to transport us to another world and to provide a perspective far removed from our own. January for me has been all about Grace & Frankie, I’ve had a couple of Sundays all wrapped up on the sofa and indulging in series 6 on Netflix.
Brilliant!
Get moving
When I’m feeling low, one of the things I can do to feel instantly better is go for a walk (never imagined the day I would say that let alone write it!). Or get on the bus here in London and go somewhere I’ve never been, and of course – always with my camera. Just last week, I got on the bus and headed to London embankment. I captured this photo (above) whilst there. I mean… how can you remain in a funk when there are beautiful blue skies… and an Italian man (dressed like a scot) playing the bagpipes on London embankment! I could only smile.
Dance it off
Music is a great way to change our energy and get back into a space of high vibration. You know that song – it comes on the radio when you are driving home from work and you just can’t help but move or sing along?… Find it now on iTunes or Spotify and download it to your phone. And while you are at it, why not create a playlist of similar/high energy music. Create a soundtrack of your favourite singalong songs and dance the blues away.
Notice how quickly your energy shifts and consequently your mood improves. In the words of Taylor Swift ‘Shake it off’.
So, there you have it. My top tips on how to steer clear of the low moods and ensure that you are enjoying life and feeling good every day.
If you have any additional tips, I’d love for you to share them in the comments below.
x Until next time, sending you love x
I would love to get to know you more, connect with me here.
