Over 55 communities: ways to curb the January blues
It’s no secret that the beginning of the year can be a difficult month for many. With the build up to Christmas over, it can feel a little bleak as we get into the thick of the first month of the year. Over 55 communities, like Burnham Waters, offer plenty for residents to enjoy through January and into the rest of the year. This week, we take a closer look at ways to help you beat the January blues.
Get outside
Top of our list is getting outside. Although the first few months of the year can be chilly, the cool wintery mornings are often laden with sunlight and the wonders of nature’s beauty. Simply spending a few minutes outside will improve how you feel and is one of the best mood-boosting remedies. Vitamin D obtained from natural light is vital to humans - we need it to function. It has been shown to improve the body’s circadian rhythm and boost serotonin levels.
Over 55 communities will encourage you to get out and about where possible – everyone can benefit from spending a little time outside and blowing away the cobwebs! Even if you can’t make it outside, opening the curtains and sitting near a window will work to lift your spirits instantly.
Keep active
It is a well know fact that exercise is good for you, at all ages! Exercise can ensure routine and really lift your spirits over the long winter months. Workouts can be flexible, whether you choose to go indoors or outdoors, try 10 minutes or 30, you can accommodate yourself accordingly with many different workouts. From stretching, light weights, to swimming sessions with friends, there’s many options to keep your body moving and your mind whirring!
In fact, according the the NHS, older adults should do some type of physical activity every day. It can help to improve your health and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Walk it out
Talking of exercise, walking is one of our favourite activities when it comes to fitness at over 55 communities. Regardless of age, it’s an activity that the majority of us can enjoy! Walking for just 20 minutes a day can have a profoundly positive impact and can essentially prolong our lives. From promoting good physical and mental health, to enabling routine and new connections, the benefits are countless.
Walking provides an instant mood boost, allowing serotonin and endorphins flood the body. Walking amongst nature and its elements have the power to reawaken, revive and reset any looming intrusive thoughts. Walking ensures that you are keeping your mind active; just like you would your body, it’s important that you stimulate your brain to optimise your mental wellbeing.
Additionally, if you’re looking to improve your fitness levels this new year, walking is an easy way to do so! From weight loss, to lowering blood pressure and joint stiffness, walking offers many physical health benefits.
Indulge in you time
Taking time for yourself is absolutely fundamental. It’s imperative that you schedule time for yourself, just like you would a doctor’s appointment, or dinner with a friend. Whether it’s a moment to practice gratitude, walk towards hitting your step goal, playing an instrument, cooking or reading a book, self-care and personal time is paramount. Whatever this looks like for you, make sure you indulge in some personal time this January.
Eat a balanced diet
Eating a balanced diet is essential for older adults and is a natural way to boost your mood and energy levels. Be sure to provide your body with the right combination of proteins, carbohydrates, dairy products, fruits and vegetables. If you’re struggling to eat regularly, make a meal plan that will help you to stay on track with timings. The little and often rule certainly works well too. Don’t be afraid to have a little fun and experiment with new meal ideas this new year. What we put into our bodies really matters - when we eat well, we feel well!
For more tips on how to eat well, why not take a look at Age UK's healthy eating guide.
Routine and schedule
When we retire, our routine changes dramatically. Our advice would be to try and stick to a new schedule that fits around your new lifestyle. It’ll help you to feel purposeful, accomplished and ensure that your lifestyle has a regularity to it. Note down your goals for the week and the things you’d like to achieve during the month to help you stay focused. If you’re feeling a little blue in these early months, don’t hide yourself away – involve yourself in activities and socialisation within over 55 communities.
Socialise
Regular communication and connection are fundamental to our wellbeing as humans. Being around people and/or talking to others can quickly lift spirits and give the mind something direct to focus on. In person visits are always preferred, but we understand that it is not always easy to get out and about, especially during the winter. However, a simple phone call or video can make the world of difference to how you’re feeling!
Over 55 communities offer many social opportunities for residents. From gym classes, book clubs, walking clubs, to cosy catch ups in cafes, there is plenty for over 55’s to enjoy at Burnham Waters. For more information, take a look at our lifestyle page.
Get in touch
We hope we’ve given you some inspiration for things to do and keep you busy this January! If you’d like to receive more information about Burnham Waters, our friendly team are on hand to help you discover new prospects at our village in 2024.
Simply send us an email at info@burnhamwaters.co.uk, or get in touch with our sales team on 01621 861559. You can also fill out our contact form for a downloadable brochure. We look forward to hearing from you!
