January arrives every year with the same energy: grey skies, cold toes, and a suspicious lack of motivation. Monday 19 January 19, 2026 is the so-called Blue Monday, the unhappiest day of the year. If winter has you feeling a bit meh, flat, or emotionally wrapped in a blanket of “can’t be bothered”, you’re not alone. The winter blues are very real – and no, drinking more coffee isn’t the solution (sorry).
The good news? You don’t need a total life overhaul to feel better. Sometimes it’s the smallest tweaks that make the biggest difference. Think gentle nudges, not dramatic transformations.
Here are some little, doable ways to lift your mood and feel more like yourself again.
1. Eat something warm first thing (Yes, before coffee)
We know – coffee feels non-negotiable. But starting the day with something warm and nourishing (porridge, eggs, soup, even toast) can make a surprising difference to your mood and energy. Warm food tells your nervous system: we are safe, calm down. Coffee can wait five minutes.
2. Keep your hands busy (It’s not just for toddlers)
There’s something deeply regulating about doing things with your hands. Colouring, puzzles, baking, knitting, painting your nails – even absent-minded doodling counts. Busy hands = calmer mind. It’s science, but also feels a bit like magic.
3. Change your environment once a day
You don’t need a city break. Just step outside, move rooms, sit by a different window, pop into a café, or take a short walk. A brief change of scenery resets your brain more than scrolling ever will.
4. Create a properly cosy bedtime routine
Winter nights call for ritual. Warm socks. A book you actually enjoy. Sleepy tea. Dim lights. No doom-scrolling. Your brain loves predictability – especially when the days feel long and heavy.
5. Try not to isolate (Even though the sofa Is calling)
When mood dips, isolation feels tempting – but it often makes things worse. A coffee with a friend, a walk, or even a video call can help more than you expect. You don’t have to be “good company”. Just present.
6. Watch the caffeine if anxiety creeps in
If your heart races or your mood feels shakier after your third coffee, it might be time to gently dial it down. Try swapping one cup for herbal tea or decaf – no judgement, no deprivation.
7. Get outside while it’s light (Even briefly)
Ten minutes of daylight can genuinely shift your mood. No need for a power walk – just fresh air, natural light, and movement. Think of it as medicine, not exercise.
8. Nourish, don’t punish
Hot drinks, comforting meals, and – where appropriate – supplements or vitamins can support your body through winter. This isn’t the season for extremes. It’s the season for care.
9. Plan tiny things to look forward to
A film night. A favourite takeaway. A Sunday treat. A new series. Joy doesn’t have to be big to be effective – it just has to exist.
The London Mums takeaway
Winter can be tough. You’re not weak, lazy or failing – you’re human in a cold, dark season. Start small. Be kind to yourself. And remember: this isn’t forever.
Spring always shows up eventually. Until then, socks, soup and small joys will do just fine.
Monica Costa founded London Mums in September 2006 after her son Diego’s birth together with a group of mothers who felt the need of meeting up regularly to share the challenges and joys of motherhood in metropolitan and multicultural London. London Mums is the FREE and independent peer support group for mums and mumpreneurs based in London https://www.londonmumsmagazine.com and you can connect on Twitter @londonmums
