As the winter weather drags on and the festive cheer fades, many Britons find themselves struggling with the so-called “January blues.” However, a number of creative and engaging activities can help lift the spirits during this gloomy time of year.
Embracing stand-up comedy is one unconventional approach. Paddy Merritt, a 24-year-old Briton, discovered the joy of performing live comedy last year. Despite initial nerves, he found that making others laugh was an incredibly rewarding experience. “Feeling you are bringing other people joy is a wonderful thing,” Merritt explains. Even if the performance doesn’t go perfectly, the sense of accomplishment from trying something new can be uplifting.
Professor Sophie Scott of University College London, who has also dabbled in stand-up, emphasises the social aspect of comedy as a source of joy. Watching live comedy or simply spending time with friends can trigger those “laughing ’til your face hurts” moments. “Joy is often quite intense,” she notes, “with a sense of being ‘overwhelmed with the emotion.'”
For 27-year-old data scientist Ana Cas, regular dinners and sauna sessions with friends have been invaluable in combating seasonal affective disorder. “What has helped the most is having dinner with friends,” she says. “We take turns hosting. We hang out. We chat. That’s the best thing I’ve done all winter.” The physical and social elements of these gatherings provide a refreshing contrast to the winter gloom.
Beyond socialising, physical movement can also be a pathway to joy. Poet David Larbi finds that even a brief “skip” while listening to upbeat music can lift his mood on a gloomy day. Dancing and taking a short walk are other ways to trigger the release of endorphins, according to Professor Scott.
Ultimately, the key may be to embrace the small moments of happiness that present themselves, rather than waiting for grand events. As Larbi explains, “On the average day, you can have a little smile at four or five things that might seem minute, but bring you a happy feeling.” By cultivating an attitude of gratitude for these everyday joys, individuals can find ways to weather the January blues.
