6 ways to shake the After Holiday Blues

1. Make your favorite dessert. Why should all those holiday goodies be reserved for the holidays? Better yet, take some to your neighbors, friends, co-workers.

2. Think of others. We were all taught that it's better to give than to receive. It's true, and it’s a huge lift to your spirits. Gifts don’t have to end just because the holidays are over. And giving doesn’t have to be monetary - do a random act of kindness for someone, even a total stranger. It can be something as small as a genuine smile to the person on the other side of the counter who waits on you, or holding the elevator for someone running for it.

3. Plan a trip to someplace you've always wanted to go. If your budget doesn’t allow something out of town, visit a place in town you’ve always wanted to see such as a museum, art exhibit, outdoor concert.

4. Pamper yourself . . . and a friend if you can. Get a manicure, pedicure or an entire spa day, depending on your budget. Budget still pinched? Have a spa day at your house with friends and pamper each other.

5. Return to the hobbies you’ve neglected during the busy holidays. Write, read, draw, paint, scrapbook, play a musical instrument – whatever you used to love to do and haven’t in a while. Stimulating those creative juices and giving them an outlet is energizing.

6. Write thank you notes to everyone who remembered you in big and small ways. Doing this reminds you of the thoughtful people in your circle and helps you relive the joy a second time. It’s sorta like counting your blessings, which is a great way to remember good things about your life.