How to Beat the January Blues

Sadly, after a hectic Christmas season seeing your nearest and dearest, January can be a tough time of year. The days are short, the temperature is low, and the British weather is even more miserable than usual. So, this week, to help you manage a little bit, we’ve got some tips on how to beat the January blues.

Exercise is a great way to give your mind a break from the January blues. Exercise can take any form, from a gentle or moderate activities like jogging, yoga, or even a brief lunchtime walk. Luckily all our accommodation is near lovely walking routes and some of our accommodations have state-of-the-art gym equipment, so you don’t even have to leave your building.

One of the reasons why people suffer from the January Blues is that they are overly ambitious with their New Year’s resolutions and are left feeling unhappy when they can’t fulfil them. Give yourself achievable goals instead of beating yourself up when you don’t meet your impossible resolutions.

January holds busy exam periods for most students, but that doesn’t mean it has to ruin your sleep pattern. Try and set yourself hours to revise and be strict with yourself, knowing you need to take care of your body.

A healthy balanced diet can always fit within a student budget. It is an easy way to give your body some energy so you are ready for the day. It is tempting to carry on binging on comfort food, however. Filling yourself with bad food is the quickest way to make you feel bad. Having the courage to make a change and improve your nutrition will soon have you feeling brighter from the inside, out.

After the madness of Christmas and seeing all your friends and family, it can feel hard in January to reconnect after all the craziness. So, take the time out of your day to do the things you love – catching up with family and friends!

Downing Students also offers great social events throughout the month to meet new people and socialise with existing friends.

Burying yourself in a gripping book of your choice is a great way to take your mind off feeling low. Reading for pleasure is proven to have health benefits, so treat yourself! Feel free to use the cinema rooms Downing Students provide to enjoy.

Lighter days are not far away! Until then, take care of yourself and let the people around you, help you through.