Now that the highs of the festive season have come to an end, we find ourselves in the dreary throes of January. We’re back to the old routine and the days are cold, wet and miserable, which leaves many of us feeling down.

Thankfully there are ways to beat the January blues and get the happy hormones flowing.

Get outside and get moving

Being in the great outdoors and around nature is an instant mood booster and stress reliever. By taking things up a notch and exercising in the fresh air, it’s proven to improve self-esteem and energy and heighten serotonin levels. Why not give your garden a quick spruce up or even start planning your spring and summer beds? Or go for a long walk in the countryside, a brisk stroll into town or take a cycle through our beautiful towns and villages. Just getting outside in the natural light will make you feel great.

Brighten your home with fresh flowers

Not only do fresh flowers brighten your home, but they also lift your mood and ignite creativity. Having fresh flowers in your home has been linked to a reduction in anxiety and blood pressure and an increase in positivity. Multiple studies prove that the colour, smell and act of giving flowers have a healing effect on recipients as they have an immediate impact on happiness. Make someone’s day and give them a bunch of fresh flowers!

Herbs to help you relax

Mint has been used as a medicinal herb for hundreds of years to aid digestion and also alleviate headaches. Just one sniff of its powerful scent is enough to invigorate and relax you. Lavender helps eliminate nervous tension and is great for getting a more restful night sleep. Bring a few cuttings into the house to get that fresh, natural fragrance, add it to cakes or biscuits recipes or try making homemade lavender scented candles or soaps. Rosemary has a host of benefits, including stress and anxiety relief, improved focus and memory, appetite stimulation, plus it has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Add it to your cooking, butter, oils and salts or create a new flavoured tipple by adding it to water along with lemons. However you choose to beat the January blues, you can find what you need at Hartwell Nurseries.

Happy gardening and Happy New Year.

Hartwell Nurseries.