January can have the ability to either be an extremely exciting month, or for some people a very stressful month. With the cold weather and ‘gloomy skies still upon us, it’s more important than ever to give yourself a little TLC and time to destress.

Our favourite way to destress is probably one of the most simple, yet effective ways to calm your mind and relax, and we’re talking about the dreamiest cosy evening in. Start by taking your makeup off, tying your hair up and popping on your cosy pyjamas to get yourself comfortable. Next set the tone by lighting candles which give the room such a calming feeling and give a lovely scent to the room. Then grab yourself some snacks and a beverage of choice to have while watching a movie. It sounds so cliché but relaxes you and gives you the chance to immerse yourself in a movie and forget about the rest of the world.

Next a bath, this is perfect in these colder months and maybe you were lucky enough to receive a bath bomb over Christmas that you can use. Again, light some candles, read your favourite book or listen to a podcast or even prop your laptop up somewhere and watch some Netflix, whatever relaxes you. This is the perfect time for some peace and quiet to relax.

With 2020 meaning we all spent a lot more time at home than usual that lead to increased screen times and hours on end scrolling through social medias. This can be detrimental for mental health with the constant comparisons of success, weight, looks, clothes, cars which is so unhealthy. Often, we need to remind ourselves that social media isn’t real and is only showing the ‘perfect’ parts, when no one’s life is perfect. That’s why it can be good to take a social media break every once in a while, to give yourself a break from the constant pressures. This can be so beneficial to your mental health and also to your productivity as you are not on your phone.

Art is a perfect way to relive stress whether it be by using adult colouring books or painting by numbers. A simple activity which doesn’t require much skill but allows you to have a rewarding outcome with a very soothing process. You can do this while listening to music and just get into a zone to help distract you and destress, letting your creativity run wild.

Podcasts are a great alternative to reading or watching something on a screen, there are so many different variations of podcasts from historical, educational, girl talks etc. There is a different genre for everyone, they can be listened to in the car, on a walk or just while you’re doing the house chores. They are perfect if you want to reduce your screen time and may not have the time to sit down and read a book, as with podcasts you can just listen to them on the go. 

Last of all, baking. This is such a fun activity to do and you get something delicious at the end of it! Even if you haven’t really baked before you can start with simple recipes or even using a Betty Crocker cake mix! As it doesn’t matter how good you are or how complex the recipe is, as long as you enjoy it. It is the perfect way to relax and destress, who knows you may be the next Mary Berry. 

NN, x