7 ways to beat the January blues in Manchester

Small changes that make a big difference

When you’re feeling down, making yourself feel better can seem like a huge task, trust us we’ve been there, that’s why we’re sharing our top ways to make the January blues easier to cope with that require very minimal effort.

Be kind to yourself

First and foremost, it’s important to understand that the January blues are a very real thing that affects so many people, so take comfort in knowing you’re not the only one going through this and give yourself a break! We can be so hard on ourselves sometimes for things that are out of our control but accepting the situation and not beating yourself up about how you’re feeling and instead showing yourself some compassion will be a big steppingstone in feeling better.

Revaluate your resolutions

We’ve all been there, it’s the 1^st of January, you tell yourself ‘I’m going to go to the gym every single day this year’ and you *swear* you will, but next thing you know it’s February and you’ve been a grand total of 5 times. Trust us, we know that feeling all too well, but before you feel bad about yourself, ask yourself have you really failed, or was the resolution just unrealistic? We’re not saying that you shouldn’t set goals but be realistic about what you can achieve, instead of saying you’ll workout every day, why not set a goal to be more active than you were last year? Simply rephrasing your resolution can make it feel like a lot less pressure and make it way more achievable.

Soak up the sunlight

If you’re anything like us and hate the short winter days when it’s dark when you wake up and dark when you come home, then the lack of sunlight could be a big reason for your low moods. In fact, it’s scientifically proven that the vitamin D we get from the sun makes us happier, so go out of your way this January to try and soak up that sunlight. Little things can make a big difference, if you’re working from home make sure to open your curtains and work facing the window, or if you work from the office, make the most out of your breaks by going outside for a few minutes a day, we know embracing the cold weather is hard, but ultimately it’ll make you feel better!

Look at January differently

It’s so easy to look at January and think of all the negatives it has to offer: the freezing weather, the short days, and that everlasting wait for January payday, but what if you looked at January in a different light? Instead think of new beginnings, a time of self-reflection and bettering yourself, and use it to set the tone for the rest of the year. It doesn’t have to all be doom and gloom, a small mindset change can go a long way in helping you to see the positive in things.

Getting out the house

We know that getting out of the house is the last thing you want to do when the temperature is below 0 and your heated blanket is calling your name but getting out of the house and engaging in activities that stimulate your brain or are just simply enjoyable has a huge positive effect on how you feel. Here’s a list of some events that are on in Manchester this January that we’re sure you’d love.

Pop-up painting

One of our favourite things to do when we want to spend a wholesome evening in Manchester is channel our inner Picasso at the Pop-up Painting classes. They run all month, every month, and give you the chance to recreate classics by big names like Banksy and Van Gogh, amongst many others. If you’re anything like us and the fear of your painting abilities is stopping you from going then don’t worry, there’s friendly instructors there to help you and hype your painting up, and you can grab a drink or some food before you start so you feel totally comfortable.

YO! Sushi School

While we’re on the topic of new beginnings, why not use this January to learn a new skill? YO! have reintroduced their sushi school which will be hosted every Wednesday in the Arndale for the next few months. Other than learning to roll like a pro, you’ll learn all about the history of sushi, the ingredients used, and knife cutting skills, so you can come out of each class one step closer to being a true sushi connoisseur. The classes last around 2 hours and you’ll be in the presence of the YO! sushi making expert as well as other class goers so you can expect a positive atmosphere and delicious food to tuck into at the end.

IndieFlicks Film Festival

The IndieFlicks film festival is a totally unique night out hosted at Chapeltown Picture House showcasing festival quality short films from around the world to eagle-eyed watchers. For just £8 you’ll get to watch a selection of varied short films, vote for your favourite, and have your questions asked by the filmmakers and special guests- talk about fancy! Best of all, you get to do all of that while enjoying a wide selection of food & drinks from the bar. If you’re an avid film watcher then this monthly event will definitely be a bit of you so make sure to grab your tickets.

If you decide to attend any of the events we listed or find any of our tips particularly helpful then we’d love to know. Find us on socials and get in touch!