I always feel like January is the longest month. After the rush and activity of December we are faced with a cold, bare month with nothing to do. For those with seasonal depression it is the worst. After years of hating January I learned a few tricks to get through it.
Number one is of course cleaning after the tree comes down. Nothing says ‘fresh start’ like a nice, clean home. I know the house can feel empty when all the decorations come down, but it is easier to clean and you’re working with a blank slate. That’s where number 2 comes in.
2- cozy it up a bit. Candles (real or battery operated), a few books sitting near your favorite spot on the couch, throw pillows, warm lighting, and cuddly throw blankets help give a sense of calm and comfort.
A third suggestions is scent. Any air freshener, scented candle or however you scent your home will do. I love the Bath & Body Works concentrated room sprays. Seasonal to fit what you think January should smell like -snow for instance- or something tropical. Whatever scent you choose is up to you, just spritz something that makes you happy.
Number four on my list is comfort clothing. Fuzzy socks, a favorite robe or lounging clothes will make you feel better. It’s like a little hug to put on your favorite things.
A nice drink will warm you up and make you feel better. Coffee, tea, cocoa, or even your favorite cocktail. I’m thinking comfort equals happiness!
Reading is my 6th suggestion for dealing with the January blahs. Getting into a good book always helps me. I love cozy mysteries and autobiographies. If you received a book as a Christmas gift, now is the time to read it.
New-to-you movies to watch is another suggestion but of course an old favorite will do as well. My personal pick me up movie is Midnight in Paris. It’s got humor, romance, & fantasy all in one. If you haven’t seen it, give it a try!
Number 8 is decorating for January. I have a small snowman, snowflake, and winter decor collection I like to have on display. Just here and there, to help with the bareness of everything in the house. Plus I love snow, so it gives me a bit of pretty winter to look at even if all I actually get is rain.
9 is cooking or baking. If you didn’t have time to bake during the Christmas season you can still bake cookies! Snowmen, snow flakes, or whatever your favorites are. You can bake bread. Or cook for friends. The oven will warm the house, the aromas will scent your home, and you can share whatever you make with friends or co-workers if you like.
My last suggestion is to have a winter get together. Even with the current situation you can still have a few friends or family members over. Be with people you love. Play games, listen to music, dance, eat. Make it casual or fancy. Have a winter theme or luau. Whatever makes you happy.