3:30pm sunsets, hands turning numb, the winter blues – January can be a tough month for us all in Edinburgh. It’s easy to be grumpy in our freezing flats and wish away the cold days, but I think it’s time we all learn to embrace this season rather than fight it. The first thing is to get outside! Getting fresh air and movement is so important for our physical health, releasing endorphins and helping to clear our heads. Whilst leaving your heated blanket might seem like the last thing you want to do, bundle up in your puffer coat, cute stripy scarf and gloves and go for a stroll around the Meadows, Edinburgh’s beautiful streets, or (if you’re brave) Arthur’s seat. Once you’re in from your lovely stroll (blood pumping and nose a bit chilly) work on creating a space where you can truly relax. Turn off that jarring, overhead light in favour of some candles and put on some big old socks. It’s so important to acknowledge that the lack of sun means we all need a few more hours to snooze and a little less running around. Embrace this slowness, give yourself some grace, and you might just find winter a little less soul-crushing…
“Scottish National Monument” by Fraser Mummery is licensed under CC BY 2.0.