Largs medium Jane Dawson has provided five top tips to beat the winter blues.

With today being Blue Monday, Jane has provided the following advice - know better times are just around the corner, appreicate all that you have, have something to look forward to, be patient, and have a routine.

Jane, who studied psychology, said: "These simple tips can really help to get through not only Blue Monday, but also the rest of our long Scottish winter."

Know that better times are just around the corner  
We are in midwinter, it’s cold, dark and dreary and heating costs are through the roof. But hang on in there, Spring is not far away with its renewed energy and promise of lighter and warmer days 
Appreciate all you do have

We are blessed, we just have to remember that and appreciate what we do have. A roof over our head, food in our bellies, warm clothing and footwear & the love of family, friends and pets. We are considerably better off than so many others around the world 
Have something to look forward to

 Plan a weekend away, or maybe a little holiday somewhere, you don’t need to spend a lot. Even preparing a special meal, date night or family day out will all lift the mood 
Be patient with yourself & others  - This time of year does tend to foster irritability, and in more acute cases Seasonal Affective Disorder. If you feel this is you there are ways to address this, including speaking with your GP. It’s worth trying some easy meditations, available through many apps or just by relaxing and focusing on your breath . This is proven to have many physical and mental benefits 
Have a routine

Try and eat hot, nutritious meals regularly. soup is easy and cheap to prepare and nearly everyone loves it . Drink plenty of water, and try to do any kind of exercise that you enjoy . Even dancing in the kitchen will do it.
Schedule in time to have fun with friends and when you’re home with Netflix choose funny or uplifting shows. Do limit viewing times though as a regular sleep schedule is important