Little pick-me-ups

It’s cold and dark, and most of us are trying to tighten already tight belts. So this month, we’re focusing on little pick-me-ups to lighten the grey days.

Time to breathe

Aromatherapy has been used for centuries to ease stress and anxiety, boost energy and aid sleep. You can buy ready-made blends or make your own. For uplifting scents, try blending lemon, sweet orange and cedarwood, or sweet orange and bergamot. For stress-relief, blend neroli with a few drops of bergamot and clary sage, or neroli with ylang ylang and lavender. Need a restful scent to help you sleep? You can’t beat lavender. If you find it too strong on its own, combine it with vetiver and camomile. Why not make a home-made bath oil? Just add forty drops of your chosen essential oils to half a cup of a base oil, such as olive, jojoba, apricot kernel, grapeseed or sweet almond. You can use the oil straight away, but the aroma will get stronger if you leave it to sit for a couple of weeks. Just store it somewhere dark, like a cupboard. Add a tablespoon of the oil to your bath while the water is running to release the scent and leave your skin soft and smooth.

Time to focus

Try combining mindfulness with your daily skincare routine. Put some calming music on. Slow down and focus on the sensation of cleansing and moisturising. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Appreciate the fragrance of any scented products. Consciously unclench your jaw and relax your muscles.

Time to move

Numerous studies have shown what most of us already know – time in nature is hugely beneficial for mental health and wellbeing. It’s hard to drag yourself outside when the weather is miserable, but you will feel better for it. Try to take at least a short walk outside every day. Ideally, aim for the morning, as that supports your natural circadian rhythm so can help you sleep better. If you live in a town or city, make time to be in nature at least once a week, whether you head to the woods, a beach, a riverside path or just your local park.

Time to treat

Little luxuries boost our spirits, and they don’t need to be expensive. Ideally, choose something you’ll appreciate every day. A new nail polish is a good choice. Leighton Denny’s are easy to apply and stay chip-free for ages. Plus, they’re vegan and free from formaldehyde and other harsh chemicals. Jungle Juice is a gorgeous rich plum that really ‘pops’ (£12.50, www.leightondenny.com). Hand creams, fragranced shower gels and lipsticks also make ideal little luxuries. Why not team up with a friend to gift each other one small treat a month? You could set a budget of £10 or less, and some treats could be home-made or free.