Quick Fixes and Long Term Lifestyle Changes to Make You Happy

Image credit: Microsoft Clipart

Multiple studies show January to be the most depressing month of the year. It's not surprising really, we're still recovering financially from the aftermath of Christmas, the euphoria from all of the parties and get-togethers with family and friends has worn off, the weather is rubbish and many people have given up on their New Year's Resolutions resulting in low motivational levels. 

To cheer up you in the short term and get you back on track ASAP, John Bell & Croyden (pharmacists to Her Majesty the Queen!)have selected their top 5 products to perk you up and beat the blues. I've added in a few tips along the way for boosting your mood in the long term using your diet, as it's important to remember that there are no permanent quick fixes for a happy life. Here's to starting February on a positive note!

1. Aduna Boabob Fruit Powder (£18 for 170g)

100% natural, nutrient-dense raw whole food and an excellent source of Vitamin C, Calcium,  Potassium and Thiamin. These nutrients combine to support energy levels, the immune system and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. 

Whilst this fruit powder gets to work in the short term, use your extra energy to compile a shopping list of happy foods. Thing bright citrus fruits, packed in immune boosting Vitamin C, bananas and sweet potatoes for potassium and lots of beans, peas and seeds for Thiamin. 

2. Karma St Johns Wort Extract (£9.50 for 425g)                                      

A Traditional herbal medicinal product used to relieve the symptoms of low moods. St Johns Wort is especially effective to treat mild forms of depression. 

Just a word of caution: always read the label! And avoid if you're pregnant or on birth control. Always check with your doctor before taking any kind of medication, even herbal. 

You can also try serotonin-boosting foods such as dark chocolate, turkey, chicken, cheese, nuts, and oily fish. Plenty of exercise will also top up levels of the happy hormone. 

3. BetterYou D Oral Vitamin D3 Spray by Jan de Vries (£7 for15ml)

Contains 100 sprays enough for a 3 month supply. Vitamin D3 is manufactured by our bodies  when our skin is exposed to UVB rays from the sun and aids calcium absorption which is fundamental for maintaining healthy teeth and bones. Research shows that in the winter months we lack Vitamin D.

The mint flavour one can also be used with a double purpose! Simply spray after a meal and the minty taste will prevent you from wanting to go back for seconds!

For a long term solution, be sure to look for yoghurt that contain Vitamin D as well as calcium. Hint: children's yoghurts often combine the two to aid with the development of healthy bones so pop one of your kid's yoghurts in your lunch box for work!

4. DoMatcha Tea (£25.50 for 30g) - EXCLUSIVE to JB&C

DoMatcha tea contains the finest Japan’s tea leaves that guarantee the highest nutritional value as well as a sweet and pleasant flavor. The leaves are hand picked in the spring when they are young and fresh and most vibrant. The tea raises energy levels for up to 4 hours, creates a state of relaxed yet calm mental alertness and contains 137 times more antioxidants that steeped green tea.

5. SAD Solutions Blue Light LED Poratble Light Therapy (£150)

Up to a third of the population in Britain suffers from seasonal affective disorder (SAD) also known as winter depression, according to MIND, a leading mental health charity in England and Wales. This is a Easy-to-use and portable BLUE Light uses blue light technology to give a quick, safe and 100% Medical CE certified effective light treatment for those suffering with SAD disorder which can improve mood. 

I think all offices should have one of these! But when the sun does eventually come back out (it has to at some point, right?) take advantage and nip out for a walk or short jog through a park - remember to wear your hats and gloves as its till winter!

Images provided by John Bell & Croyden. This post was written on behalf of John Bell & Croyden and I received a sample of the Vitamin D3 spray for the purpose of review. I was not compensated in any other way and as usual, the views expressed are my own.