SIMPLE THINGS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Try these gentle mood boosters for the dark days of winter.

Be kind to yourself and instigate some self-care. Have a long lie-in (we need more sleep in winter – that’s excuse enough surely?). Book a massage, some reflexology or a holistic facial. Touch is vital to our wellbeing so, at the very least, give yourself a simple massage: focus on the neck and shoulders if you’ve been hunched over a desk or massage your feet before bedtime to summon restful slumber.

This is the season for long languid baths, rather than short sharp showers. A warm bath has been shown to improve mood and emotional wellbeing, so make it a regular ritual. Take time out to indulge in regular pampering sessions using all those beautiful lotions and potions you received for Christmas. For more watery wisdom, read Bathe by Suzanne Duckett (£16.99, Lagom).

If you know you’re prone to SAD (seasonal affective disorder), invest in a sunlight lamp. The Zest SAD & Wake-up Light (£125; lumie.com) offers five light levels and is compact enough to keep by your bed or on your desk.

Invest in a daily mood lifter – the Positive Planner (£20; thepositiveplanners.com) is a diary meets DIY therapist with daily reflections, practical exercises and a mood tracker.

Flex your creative muscles. Research shows that even a small amount of creativity can help us cope with stress, anxiety and depression. Check out Master Peace (masterpeace.studio) who offers wonderful at-home art kits (alongside sessions in London). Or check locally (try Facebook groups or Meetup) for classes in knitting, crochet, macramé, pottery and creative writing. It’s most certainly not about perfection or talent – it’s all about having fun. HB

Jane Alexander (exmoorjane.com) is the author of over 20 books on wellbeing. For more seasonal tips and techniques see Ancient Wisdom for Modern Living – From Ayurveda to Zen, Seasonal Wisdom for Clarity and Balance (£14.99, Kyle Books).

This winter is the season for warming soups and stews, for spicy chai lattes and cheeky fondues

GUIDING LIGHT Invest in daily mood boosters, even if it’s something as simple as lighting a few candles

SOUP DU JOUR This is not the time for chilly salads – keep your diet full of warm and nourishing food