THE cold weather and dark evenings aren’t going anywhere despite January almost being over.
And it turns out nearly half of Brits wish they could skip February altogether and go straight to March as they name it the ‘Monday of all months’.
Nataly Cassidy is onboard with getting the nation to make the most of February[/caption]
Brits wish they could skip the month altogether[/caption]
Those surveyed put the dreary weather (69 per cent), freezing temperatures (68 per cent), and short days (52 per cent) as the top reasons many would like to banish February from the calendar.
The poll of 2,000 adults found that 30 per cent admitted their New Year’s resolutions had faded by the time the second month rolled around, as 48 per cent blamed a lack of motivation.
And 40 per cent said that life simply gets in the way after January, while 32 per cent confessed to becoming bored with the goals they’d set.
But overall, 45 per cent of Brits feel unmotivated throughout February.
To help the nation combat the February funk, Bassetts Vitamins, which commissioned the research, has launched its Fun-uary Calendar to encourage people to embrace one fun task a day to lift their spirits. It is available via a social media giveaway.
Former EastEnders star Natalie Cassidy, who has teamed up with the brand, said: “I’ve actually never been a big fan of February.
“And it’s clear with 53 per cent of people voting February just as gloomy if not gloomier than January, I’m not the only one.
“So taking on the tasks from the Fun-uary Calendar has brought a bit of joy to each day, which can make a big difference this time of year.”
The study also found 63 per cent of adults are eager to make February more enjoyable, with 85 per cent of the belief that it’s the little things that bring the most joy.
Among the top mood-boosters were watching a comedy (27 per cent) and listening to a podcast (11 per cent).
Beat the winter blues
If the winter blues persist or feel overwhelming, consider speaking to a healthcare professional, as it could be a sign of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which may require additional support.
- Get Plenty of Natural Light
Shorter days and longer nights can lead to a lack of sunlight, which may affect your mood. Try to spend time outdoors during daylight hours, even if it’s just for a short walk. If natural light is scarce, consider using a light therapy box to simulate sunlight and improve your well-being. - Stay Active
Regular physical activity can do wonders for your mood and energy levels. Whether it’s a brisk walk, a yoga session at home, or joining a local fitness class, exercise helps release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters. - Maintain a Healthy Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help stabilise your mood and energy. Limit sugary snacks and processed foods, as they can lead to energy crashes. Warm, nourishing meals like soups and stews can also be comforting during the colder months. - Stay Socially Connected
It’s easy to feel isolated during winter, but making an effort to stay connected with friends and family can improve your mood. Arrange coffee catch-ups, join a local club, or even have a cosy video chat from the comfort of your home. - Practise Self-Care
Winter is a great time to focus on self-care. Take warm baths, read a good book, or try relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing. Prioritising your mental health and taking time for yourself can help combat feelings of sadness or lethargy.
Moments shared with loved ones brought the most enjoyment, with 81 per cent cherishing these interactions.
Giving a friend or family member a hug (37 per cent), meeting up for a coffee (34 per cent), and revisiting shared traditions (19 per cent) were also among the most treasured activities, according to those polled via OnePoll.
Hannah Gardner, from Bassetts Vitamins, said: “We know how important it is to encourage people to indulge in a moment of fun each day – especially during the bleaker winter months.
“And with the launch of the “Fun-uary Calendar” you can do just that, all while embracing the simple habit of taking a one-a-day vitamin gummy.”
