Finding Motivation This January

Falling in the wake of New Year celebrations, the unwelcome phenomenon of the "January Blues" wreaks its havoc each year. The cold weather was just about bearable with the Christmas spirit abound but now it feels as though there is a collective mentality geared toward fast forwarding winter. From rapidly waning New Year resolutions to being back at work after the holiday indulgence, motivation just getting out of bed can be in very short supply. That’s why, to help you wrestle your January Blues into non-existence, we have compiled a list of activities of fun things to do that will help put January in your control instead of your blues.

1. The Gruffalo Trail

If you're wondering what to do today, from 26 November until 24 January, Colin Glen Forest Park is bringing to life children's classic, The Gruffalo. Following in the footsteps of the very clever mouse to find the Gruffalo, you'll encounter some interesting characters along the way so make sure to take plenty of photos. As it's an outdoor activity, don't let the cruel January elements keep you banished indoors, get the kids wellies out, wrap up warm with waterproof winter coats and be ready to delve into the fictitious world of the Gruffalo for an afternoon!

2. Attend a Local Event

However appealing staying cooped up in the warmth of the house might seem, getting out and about, having a sense of life beyond work has an important impact upon your overall mood. Boasting of a multitude of diverse acts, the Out to Lunch festival defeats the concept of January being a dull month. With many family friendly events, whether its music, theatre or literature, you and your family can enjoy something different to rejuvenate January.

3. Have a Literary Lunchtime

Jazz your lunch hour up on Wednesdays with a trip to the Ulster Hall for an informative, interesting talk on a particular literary topic each week. All you need to bring along with you is your lunch and you're ready to escape the grind in the beautiful, historic setting of the Ulster Hall.

4. We Are Vertigo

With a newly opened spa and off-peak prices for skiing, trampoline, zipline and adventure there has never been a better time to hit local attraction We Are Vertigo for a family day out. With so much choice for activities, you can unwind in the spa safe in the knowledge that the kids are having their fill of fun whatever they choose to do.

5. Spend a Night at the Museum

On January 29^th and 30^th Ulster Museum are holding exclusive night time trail and sleepover at the museum. Including a torchlit dinosaur trail and encounters with Vikings and Egyptians, this will get the kids off the Playstation and make for an exciting and different way to bring January finally to a close!