How to dodge those January blues

January can be a strange old month, it's dark, cold and a stark contrast to the festive, joy-filled month of December but it doesn't have to be all doom and gloom.

Whilst on our New Year's day walk, I found myself rambling on to my partner about the joys of nature and the seasons, which got me thinking about how I look forward to each coming month and what there is to appreciate in January.

First off... Freshness. A fresh start to a fresh year, a fresh set of goals, fresh cold air..you get what I mean. A clean slate. Personally, there's no better kick-starter than a fresh clean slate, learn from the past year, use what successes you had and failures you had to propel you into a better place for the coming year.

It may not feel like it but the shortest day of the year has been and gone, so every day the days are getting longer, heading towards sunnier and warmer times with all the excitement of spring around the corner. Time to plan and prepare for the year and for your gardens. Use the time on your hands in the evenings to create inspiration mood boards, research new plants you would love to incorporate, make exciting plans for the year ahead. Spring will arrive before we know it.

The birds, keep an eye out for your friendly local Robin hunting for worms whilst you're outside in the garden or on a walk. Take the time to stop and listen to the birds singing around you, it really is magical. This time of year especially is when they need our help so make sure you're filling up your bird feeders with fat balls and seeds regularly, place your feeders somewhere where you can see them as it's wonderful to watch them squabbling with each other over the perches. These small mindful moments can really help our mental health.

Snowdrops. Throughout January new shoots of life start to emerge through the frozen soil, just reminding us that there is still plenty happening underground. The most elegant white flowers bowing their heads whilst withstanding the coldest temperatures, a glimpse into the wonders of nature on its way.

Take this time to recoup, self care is a priority in January so do what makes you happy. If that's a new fitness routine, cosy nights in, redecorating, getting outside whenever you can, reading a book. Positivity can help beat the January blues.

Be positive. Your mind is more powerful than you think. What is down in the well, comes up in the bucket. Fill yourself with positive things.- Tony Dungy