search Menu

Wellbeing edition January 2025

InSight Newsletter: wellbeing edition January 2025

InSight: wellbeing edition January 2025

We thought we would do something different for this edition of InSight by focusing solely on wellbeing. We’re delighted that our friends Aarti and Sharon from Freedom & Jay agreed to provide us with practical tips and strategies for staying positive during winter.

 

We hope you enjoy reading the wellbeing newsletter.

 

There are three audio files at the bottom of the page if you would prefer to hear the contents narrated to you.

 

Beat the blues! Uplifting tips for Blue Monday.

Aarti and Sharon from Freedom and Joy. They are standing in front of the camera and they are both laughing.

Caption: Aarti and Sharon of Freedom and Joy laughing.

Hello! We are Sharon and Aarti from Freedom & Joy. We’ve had the pleasure of working with Visibility Scotland for almost three years. We support the Visibility Scotland team with coaching, training, and facilitating socialisation groups for young service users aged 12 to 25.

 

Working alongside such a dedicated organisation is truly a joy, and we’re excited to bring a jam-packed program to life in 2025.

 

Wellbeing is incredibly important to us and is key to your own Freedom & Joy, too. It’s crucial for maintaining resilience throughout the year.

 

We’ve compiled some simple tips to help you look after your wellbeing. This will allow you to feel your best, start the year with a positive mindset, and navigate Blue Monday in a positive way.

 

What is Blue Monday?

The third Monday in January is often labelled as “Blue Monday”. This is supposedly the most miserable day of the year. The term “Blue Monday” was created initially to describe a time when people may feel the winter blues more intensely. For some, this time of year can bring about feelings of loneliness, sadness, and even fatigue.

 

While Blue Monday is more of a cultural concept than a scientifically proven phenomenon, it highlights a very real experience that many people go through.

 

Low energy, shorter days, and lingering New Year pressures can make January feel overwhelming to many. But the good news is that we don’t have to let these feelings take control! With a few mindful habits and a bit of self-care, it’s possible to navigate Blue Monday in a way that uplifts the spirit and fosters a sense of wellbeing.

 

Practical hints and tips to overcome the January blues

Connect with others

Reaching out to someone can make a big difference. Try calling a friend, sending a voice message, or joining a virtual meetup. Connecting with others can remind you that you’re part of a caring community, helping to ease feelings of isolation.

 

Set a small goal

Accomplishing even a tiny task can boost your mood. Set a simple daily goal, like tidying up a small space, making a healthy snack, or spending five minutes on deep breathing. Completing something manageable can help you feel more in control and positive.

 

Move in your own way

Physical movement, even if gentle, can lift your spirits. Try some seated stretches, take a mindful walk in a familiar area, or do a gentle body scan, relaxing each part of your body. Even a few minutes of movement can make a difference.

 

Embrace the power of sound

Sound can be a powerful way to shift your mood. Listen to uplifting music, try a guided meditation, or explore an audio-described podcast or audiobook. Taking time to enjoy these sounds can help you relax and recharge.

 

Try a new self-care ritual

Consider adding a self-care ritual that engages your senses. You might enjoy a bath, a warm foot soak, or a favourite scent.

These small sensory experiences can be soothing and remind you to care for yourself.

 

Create a comforting routine

Having a comforting daily routine can bring a sense of structure and stability. Start your day with something that feels nourishing, like a warm drink, listening to a favourite playlist, or even spending a few minutes organising your space. Having a predictable routine can create a sense of calm and reduce stress.

 

Get creative

Expressing yourself creatively can be a great way to release emotions and lift your mood. You could try painting, crafting activities like knitting, or even a new recipe. Creative outlets can help you positively focus your energy and give you a sense of accomplishment.

 

Practice mindfulness or guided relaxation

Mindfulness can help you stay present and manage stress or anxiety. You might want to try a guided relaxation session or deep breathing exercises. Many audio resources are available that can guide you through mindfulness practices, helping you feel more centred and peaceful.

 

And remember, Blue Monday is just one day, and warmer days are coming again! Every step you take to care for yourself can bring more joy and calm into your day.

 

Remember that Visibility Scotland is here for you. You can access Wellbeing Support or visit the ‘Charged Up’ Café for a nourishing bowl of soup and a friendly chat. We are here to support you, so please do not hesitate to reach out. Together, we will get through it!

 

To find out more about what we do at Freedom & Joy Wellness please visit Freedom and Joy

 

How you can help

Visibility Scotland is a national charity. We support anyone living with a visual impairment across Scotland. Last year, we supported 3,189 people.

 

We want to do more, but we need your help!

 

Every donation, big or small, helps us provide our life-changing support services.

 

Donate today:

By phone: 0141 332 4632

Online: Visibility Scotland donate online

Or scan the QR code image below:

QR Code for Visibility Scotland's online donation platform called Enthuse

 

We’re here for you

Thank you for reading the latest issue of InSight.

 

If you would like to find out more about any of our services, groups, or events, then please get in touch:

 

Follow us on Twitter and Facebook: @VisibilityScot

Follow us on TikTok: @visibility_scotland

Follow us on Instagram: @visibilityscotland

Email: info@visibilityscotland.org.uk

Glasgow: 0141 332 4632

Edinburgh: 0131 378 1874

Dumfries: 01387 267 131

 

Audio described newsletter

Please click play on the three files below to hear a narrated version of the newsletter.

Newsletter Track One

Newsletter Track Two

Newsletter Track Three

Donate Skip to content