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5 Top Tips for Beating the January Blues

It’s the midst of winter, and as we head into January many of us may be experiencing a drop in our mood. Known as the ‘winter blues’, or in extreme cases seasonal defective disorder (SAD), this phenomenon is not uncommon. Shorter daylight hours and cold weather result in a biological response that can leave sufferers sluggish, tired, and even depressed.

As such, we’ve put together 5 top tips for improving your mental health and wellbeing and getting 2023 off to an up-beat start. But first…

What are the symptoms of ‘Winter Blues’?

 

Symptoms will vary from person to person, but could include:

If you are experiencing any or all of these affects, then our tips below could really help! (Note: If you are suffering severely, we advise you speak to your GP first.)

Tip #1. Get Outside

Studies have shown that both physical activity and natural light are proven to help sufferers of SAD. Go for an hour long walk at midday, during the peak of the sunlight hours. Why not head to the countryside to get the most out of your activity? Dartmoor National Park has lots of walking routes for the avid adventurer, as well as views that will take your breath away and leave a smile on your face.

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Tip #2. Take up a New Hobby

Taking up a new, enjoyable pastime is a great way to exercise your brain and boost mental function. Not to mention, it’s fun too! Be as ambitious and creative as you wish. Read that book you heard about, treat yourself to a leisure club membership, take up golfing in the great outdoors, give archery a try, or take up crafting and get creative, the options are endless.

 

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Tip #3. Eat Healthy

Eating well is another great way to combat those winter mood drops, and January is a common time for health kicks. We don’t promote ‘dieting’ and feel a little indulgence is good for the soul. Instead, seek balance and nutrition. Up those leafy greens and whole grains, and reduce free sugars found in chocolate, biscuits, and fizzy drinks for example.

Foods that may help to lift our moods this winter include:

(Source: healthline.com) We advise you consult a GP before making drastic changes to your diet or exercise regime.

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Tip #4. Spend Time with Loved Ones

Feelings of loneliness or prolonged isolation can leave us feeling even lower at this, sometimes bleak, time of year. So, you have a great excuse to meet up with family, friends, or even join a social group or local leisure club and get mingling! Talking, whether to friends or a professional, can be deeply therapeutic and help improve our moods. A problem shared is a problem halved as the saying goes. Why not go for afternoon tea together, or go hiking in the moors to soak up some sunlight and vitamin D together as you shoot the breeze?

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Tip #5. Keep Warm

Studies have long demonstrated that being warm (or comfortable) can reduce depression and improve wellbeing. This doesn’t have to mean cranking up the heating and wrapping up in a duvet – though sometimes this can be nice! Here’s some alternative ways to get temperatures rising:

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Beat the January Blues at Bovey Castle in 2023

We’re welcoming in a great new year here at Bovey Castle and have plenty on offer, perfect for those looking for a well-being boost. Available to both our residences and day visitors by prior booking, you’ll find a whole host of action-packed activities and mood-enhancing classes and treatments to enjoy. Call 01647 445000 for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Dartmoor National park in south west England is an idyllic setting for a short break where visitors can relax and get away from the stresses of modern life in beautiful rural surroundings. The perfect retreat for a spa hotel stay in Devon.

The Setting

The park is well known for its vast and rugged moorland scenery where ponies run wild through craggy landscapes and rivers cascade between rock formations. Its valleys are dotted with ancient tombs and fascinating stone circles as well as derelict farmhouses and there are great opportunities for walking and exploring the landscape.

Award-winning Spa Hotel

The 5 star Bovey Castle Hotel offers its guests a wide range of country based activities. The hotel, which is named after the local river, has been awarded many prizes for its hospitality including being named as a great family hotel. With Eden Hotel Collection claiming Small Hotel Group of the Year in 2015, in recognition of its great levels of customer service.

At the heart of the Bovey Castle Hotel visitors will find the luxurious and newly refurbished Elan Spa where they can enjoy tranquil surroundings. Bovey Castle is one of the top Spa Hotel Devon destinations.

The spa offers a wide range of bespoke experiences and beauty treatments in Devon, designed specifically to help customers relax and restore their wellbeing. Treatments are carried out using Espa’s celebrated skincare products such as essential oils, marine extracts and botanicals, to pamper the skin and rejuvenate the body and mind. A wide range of beauty treatments are available seven days a week.

The Perfect Spa Retreat

Visitors can enjoy a beauty retreat in Devon in this oasis of tranquility by taking advantage of a two day spa break which includes a 55 minute treatment carried out by the hotel’s expert therapists, together with accommodation and full English breakfast. Beauty treatment options include Facial, Full Body Massage or Neck and Face Massage. “Time to Spa” is offered subject to availability.

Alternatively for visitors who can only visit for the day the hotel offers a “time to relax” one day experience which includes dinner in the hotel restaurant, breakfast and a 25 minute treatment. Spa days include not just treatments but also use of the on-site swimming pool, steam room, Jacuzzi and sauna. Whatever your needs the hotel offers a spa experience to suit. For visitors looking to experience a Spa hotel in Devon, Bovey Castle is a top destination.

A weekend beauty retreat in Devon will leave guests feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Why not discover our spa packages?

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Eden Hotel Collection is part of Rigby Group (RG) plc.
Bovey Castle Property Limited is a company registered in England and Wales with Company Number 09552863.
Registered office address: c/o Eden Hotel Collection, Bridgeway House, Bridgeway, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6YX
VAT Number: 806641241

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