January is well known as one of the most gloomy months of the year. The Christmas decorations come down, the yuletide joydwindles, and we’re left with deflated bank accounts, inflated waistlines, and dark, cold winter days.

Add the ongoing difficulties that the coronavirus pandemic restrictions are bringing across the country to the usual January blues and you may feel like you’re facing bleak times ahead. But rest assured there are ways to bring joy and contentment post-Christmas! Here, we explore how you can spark those festive feels now that the Christmas period is officially over.

Keep chatting to your loved ones

Whether you were lucky enough to see your loved ones at Christmas, or you caught up on a phone or video call, it’s likely you, your friends and family made a big effort to speak over the festive season.

So, don’t let the communication dwindle now that January’s here. Keep chatting to your nearest and dearest as much as you can – simply talking can hugely uplift your spirits and make you feel connected even if you can’t be together.

Create lots of winter warmers

It’s fair to say that many of us look forward to enjoying tasty treats over the festive season. So why not continue to take pleasure from your food by creating delicious meals over the coming months? If you want to eat healthily after indulging at Christmas, it doesn’t mean you have to force down bland and boring dinners.

There are plenty of fantastic recipes online for hearty winter dishes that are packed full of healthy ingredients, which are not only great for you – but your tastebuds too!

Make your home cosy and inviting

Channel those hygge vibes by making your home extra cosy and inviting this January. If you haven’t heard of hygge before, it’s a Danish word that describes being comfortableandcosy, bringing an overall sense of well-being.

There are plenty of ways to embrace a hygge lifestyle, such as cuddling up under a blanket with a good book, listening to the comforting sounds of a crackling fire, or watching the flame of a candle flickering on the mantelpiece.

Add some twinkle outdoors

Who says outdoor lights are just for Christmas? While you may have to say goodbye to a giant Santa, reindeer and other festive-themed lights for another year – that doesn’t mean you can’t keep some of the twinkle. You could hang warm golden lights along your fence, hedging, railings or any other spots you think would benefit from some sparkle. They’re sure to put a smile on your face and those that pass by!

These are just some of the ways you can cheer yourself up this January. Rest assured that you don’t have to spend a lot to spark some joy post-Christmas–you can manage your money well and feel happy and content, whatever your monthly budget. Simply chatting to loved ones, making delicious and nutritious meals, and snuggling up at home won’t break the bank, and may be just the medicine you need.