January may be a time for New Year's resolutions, getting in shape, and beginning a new chapter in the book that is 2023. It's also time for Blue Monday, widely known as the "saddest" day of the year, on January 16.

It's simple to understand why: it's cold, you're back at school, and all of the joyful fun of Christmas has faded into obscurity. That's why we've come up with some simple methods to bring some joy and optimism into your life on Blue Monday, or any day.

Physical activity.

"Feeling down might diminish your motivation to be physically active, especially when exercise is less enticing during winter months like January. "Physical activity can be really helpful in improving your mood and increasing your energy levels, even if you don't feel like it," says Stephen Buckley, head of information at mental health charity Mind. 

"Research indicates that outdoor activity, such as cycling or running, can be as helpful as pharmaceuticals in treating depression. If jogging in the winter isn't for you, hobbies like Zumba, dancing lessons, and even trapeze classes have been proved to offer several mental health advantages. Throughout January, several gyms are offering free trial passes and other specials.

Make yourself a cup of positivi-TEA. 

Yes, a nice cup of tea. Start your day with a cup of chamomile tea, which is claimed to help relieve anxiety. Also, you can also save lives with a coffee - Samaritans is "turning Blue Monday on its head" by encouraging people to connect over a virtual cuppa on "Brew Monday".

To some it might just feel like another Monday but try to make a conscious effort to reach out to a friend, family member, or coworker for a virtual tea and a talk. It doesn't have to be a Monday or a cup of tea, simply taking time to actually listen to another person might help them work through what's on their mind.

Set a reasonable goal. 

"In terms of New Year's resolutions, think about setting yourself a realistic task," mental health specialists suggest. "This may be far more fulfilling than placing yourself under the strain of completing a large project, which can be stressful." 

When it’s the beginning of a new year, some may feel pressured to make big changes in the upcoming year and set very stretching New Year’s resolutions. However, we recommend that you make a list of realistic smaller tasks - this will be far more fulfilling than placing yourself under the strain of completing a large project or becoming overwhelmed. If your resolution is putting too much strain on your lifestyle, there's no guilt in making a minor adjustment. 

Read a self-help book. 

When you read an inspiring book every day, you fill your mind with good words and ideas. Making time for this elevates your moodn and you will feel encouraged to make better choices and undertake positive actions more often. 

A lot of personal development books come with activities and prompts that start you thinking about the choices you make and why you make them. An honest assessment of your current situation allows you to make the necessary changes while still feeling good about yourself. 

Utilise natural light as much as possible. 

We all know it’s hard going back to school after the festival holidays. That’s why it’s important to make the most of your morning and lunch break. Go for a brief stroll and enjoy some fresh air with your closest friends.

Wear something bright. 

It's no secret, colour can be a mood enhancer, as colour analyst Gabriella Winters of Chromology UK explains: "People absorb and reflect the same colours differently depending on their unique biological composition. When a colour is placed near your face, it will reflect its wavelength back to you."  So why not wear your brightest clothing once in a while, especially when you are feeling a little blue. 

Spend time with other people. 

Spending time with people is one of the few joys in life that may be inexpensive yet extremely rewarding. Whether it's a rural stroll with pals or a lunchtime FaceTime conversation, spending time with loved ones is significantly connected to good health. 

Eat healthily. 

Over the Christmas season it’s easy to grab some comfort food to cheer you up, many of which are high in fat or carbohydrates that will frequently cause blood sugar levels to plummet, resulting in sluggishness. 

In 2023 why not try to have a good and balanced diet to help improve your physical and mental health. You can achieve this by eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as fatty oils like omega-3 and 6. 

Invest in your education

If you are starting to consider options after school and want a taster of what university is like, we have several bespoke university programs that is tailored to meet your needs. Whether you want to learn more about a specific subject, get some advice on your personal statement or simply want to chat through your options, we're here to help!

We hope that the above tips help you beat the blues -  feel free to take some, or all of them on board and gradually build them into 2023.