The Filter gathers reader tips for lifting the January blues

The Filter asked readers for their favourite pick-me-ups to lift spirits during January and rounded up suggestions from its own team to counter the season’s gloom. Readers and staff noted that damp weather, grey skies and the return to normality after new-year motivation can leave people feeling flat.

Some tackle this by injecting colour: Alex Marsh says, “A bunch of yellow roses brings sunshine to the darkest of January’s days,” and the piece notes daffodils are in season. Serena advises buying “a red or pink brolly, which will give a glow to your face in the rain,” while the Filter’s Emily Goddard recommends dopamine dressing, even in small ways, citing “several colourful pairs of socks that add a pop of joy.” Others favour mindfulness and cosy rituals.

Frances says she enjoys “walks on crisp winter days” for “microdosing mindfulness,” and Nicola finds clearing a single work surface and lighting a candle helps her feel in control. Filter contributors shared small comforts: an extra-long hot shower before bed using Method’s Wind Down body wash, lighting a scented candle at the start of the evening (an M&S x Kelly Hoppen candle was mentioned), and “a comforting cup of tea and some chocolate” at the end of a cold day.

Key Topics

Health, January Blues, Dopamine Dressing, Mindfulness, Daffodils, Method Body Wash