IT’S A PITY that the month that asks us all to turn over a new leaf is ALSO one of the most stressful.
Don’t let the doom and gloom get you down. In fact, do the opposite. Make January a month about you – by de-stressing, enjoying yourself and having fun.
One easy way to get your head back in the game is meditation and mindfulness techniques. Luckily, there are lots of ways to get help when you’re getting started. Try Headspace, an app that trains you to think calmly and clearly. Instant stress-buster. There are also plenty of relaxing YouTube videos that guide you into the same thing.
Research from the University of Cincinnati shows that eating a sweet (just one, we’re afraid) may decrease the production of the stress-related hormone glucocorticoid. That’s the best excuse we’ve ever heard to pop a peppermint.
Aromatherapy refers to the therapeutic use of plant essential oils to affect mood and general well-being. Get yourself an oil-burner, and check out the chart below to see what oil could work for you.
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Laughing boosts endorphins, increases your intake of oxygen-rich air and stimulates your body. In other words: it’s good to laugh. Don’t feel like cracking a smile? We defy you not to laugh at this little tyke taking a tumble in some typically January weather…
And if that doesn’t melt your heart (pun intended), then it’s time to deploy the infamous and ever-hilarious Fall Guy…
Classical music is perfect for when you need to unwind. Not usually your cup of tea? Bear with us. The old stuff is shown to slow your heart rate, lower your blood pressure and – best of all – listening to any music you adore will stimulate dopamine in your brain.
Feel like getting way? Well, why not just go for it? A little break could be just what you need. And January is the perfect time to catch up with a good book away from it all. Imagine the peace and quiet. Bliss.
And if you do want to escape the January blues, there’s no better way to do it than with Iarnród Eireann’s January sale. Hop on a train for a holiday or day-trip, and clear your head. It’s never been cheaper or easier to take off and leave it all behind. So what are you waiting for? Check out more at irishrail.ie.
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