Yes, I am fond of January; it is my birthday month; however, it is the coldest and darkest month of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. This is generally a period of inactivity, rest, and introspection. In the past, the Roman calendar counted backwards from March to December, which is known as the “tenth month” from March. Originally, January and February had no names at all since everyone was merely sleeping during this time and not much was happening.
January is often recognized as the most challenging month for mental health. What if we made a conscious effort to support our bodies’ demands instead of fighting them?
These are 5 things to ensure you address this January that could truly improve your mood, promote wellbeing, and help you get off to a positive start.
Get More Sleep
We need more sleep when there is more darkness. Without access to artificial light, some studies have revealed that people would sleep significantly more during the winter than during the summer.
Depending on what’s possible for you, resolve to go to bed a little earlier, wake up a little later, and/or find time for a nap, even a short one, every day in January.
Eat More Warm, Cooked Foods
Respect what your body requires right now and give it gentle nourishment. Resolve to stop eating cold foods during the winter (unless your body really likes them) and instead opt for bone broth, spiced soups, cooked vegetables, and other warm and cozy foods. Put away the ice water and have a cup of tea or hot water with lemon instead, especially right before you eat.
Try Restorative Yoga
Yes, exercise is beneficial throughout the year, but in January, our bodies respond best to a quick walk at midday when the sun is up. Lying down in very comfortable positions and testing our ability to relax profoundly is the practice of restorative yoga.
Make Things Easier on Yourself
Ask for help, delegate something, re-prioritize, drop what wasn’t useful, lower expectations, and generally intend to make it all a little easier. There’s generally a way to make it work, but we frequently neglect to consider the possibility that we’re complicating things needlessly.
Resolve to slow down and see if there’s a way to uncomplicate your day-to-day life and any difficult situations you may find yourself in.
Receive Bodywork
January is a month when we have little to give, but we gain a lot from receiving. Make an appointment for a massage, visit a sauna or hot spring, get reiki, or experiment with any other bodywork modality that appeals to you the most. By refilling your own cup, you’ll eventually have more to share with others.
Decide to discover a way that would fit into your schedule and budget to give your body some loving attention.
