Lets face it, no matter how positive we start the year January has a tendency to be a bit dull. Work is quiet, days are cold and dark and no one has any money. The trick is finding Free Things to do to keep stimulated and happy.
It is possible to not spend money and still have a lovely time regardless of the weather. The trick is to keep positive and make these ideas below your own. Really embrace the simple pleasures to start making more of what we have.
In-Door Dates!
If you have a partner or best friend you want to spend some quality time with, stay in and get cosy. My favourite thing to do is make a cosy den in the living room with pillows and blankets. Find something great to watch on TV (Our recent watch was all 8 Harry Potter films over Christmas) and get settled in. If you have a bit of money to spare, buy some healthy snacks or a take away as a treat.
Winter Walks
Just because it is cold doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a stroll and some fresh air. Wrap up warm in your scarf, hat, gloves and coat and get out there! Walking is brilliant if you have anxiety as can be the trigger you need to stop negative thoughts. Plus fresh cold air does wonders for your soul. After your walk in the cold you can look forward to getting back into the warm and popping the kettle on.
Pamper Nights
Treat yourself to some needed time out. Run a hot bubble bath using some smellies you got for Christmas or ones left over you rarely use. Once you are warm paint your nails a pretty colour, moisturise your entire body and put a mask on your hair. Watch some of your favourite Youtube Videos (catch up on mine if you like) then wash off the hair mask. After doing these things you will feel fully relaxed. Sometimes a little pampering is all you need to feel great about yourself and ready for a new day!
Coffee/Hot Chocolate with Friends
This treat doesn’t require going out and spending money. Take it in turns to stop by each others homes for a tea or coffee instead. Catch ups are always a lovely way to cheer you up when the weather is gloomy.
Workout
This may not be on the list of your priorities during the winter or ever but it’s great for mind, body and soul. Trust this coming from me, the person who hated working out especially when it’s cold and raining. Getting my butt out of my pyjamas to the gym was not an easy transition but I started a few months ago. I now go at least 4 times a week and it’s made me so much happier, productive and happy. A gym membership isn’t free but doing a HIIT workout at home is! Try out a few of the Body Coach YouTube videos and get started. Added bonus is at least it will warm you up during these cold months! I am currently loving the new sports and fit items on ASOS!
For more tips and ways to stay positive, you can also read my post on how to keep happy and positive in winter here.
xxx