Tips on beating the New Year blues
Recent research suggests that over half of UK workers suffer from the new year blues.
The Christmas and New Year festivities are over and it’s back to work in the coldest and darkest month of the year. Recent research from a major job board has suggested that the first week back in January is the most depressing week of the year for office workers, with over 50% of people suffering from the new year blues. With this in mind, we’ve compiled some tips for staying upbeat in these dreary times.
- Take time out to laugh and play. Laughter has been scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones and release endorphins. Laughter and play boost the immune function and can aid in disease prevention. Examples of this could be watching a comedy DVD or playing a computer game.
- Get plenty of exercise. Exercise also produces endorphins which help lower stress levels. Easy examples including walking around the block or chair yoga at your desk. For the more active, joining a gym or taking up a team sport can pay dividends.
- Connect with family and friends. The company of others can help keep your spirits up and keep your brain healthy and active. Reconnecting with old friends online can also be very rewarding.
- Stick to your new years resolutions. If you made a pledge to get fit, reconnect with old friends or simply eat less chocolate you will feel better about yourself for longer if you stick at these resolutions for as long as possible.