Hey there wonderful humans! We are back and kicking off Jan by breaking through the January gloom with some heartwarming vibes and a splash of that fierce big sister energy. I know, I know, January can be a bit of a downer, but fear not—we've got this, and we've got you.

• Embrace the Chill: In the heart of winter, there's something oddly stunning about embracing the chill. Just like a chilly dip in a loch, facing the cold head-on can be invigorating. Wrap up in your coziest layers, take a deep breath, and let the crisp air do its magic. I actually think we get a bit more dry sun in the winter than we sometimes do in the summer so if it’s light - get yourself outside, even if it’s just for a walk round the block! If you’re like me maybe sometimes you need a wee extra push to get you to go for a walk - here are some podcasts we’d recommend for good quality empowering listening! (links to Apple podcasts but all available wherever you find your podcasts)

Strength, Actually - our in house SLAM podcast where Lyndsey discusses anything from women’s health to ADHD, surrounding ‘how we find strength’ not only in the gym but in our day to day lives.

Changes by Annie Mac - “DJ Annie Macmanus chats to artists, writers, musicians and a host of fascinating people about CHANGE. Each guest talks through the biggest changes they have overcome in childhood and adulthood, and how they effect change. The podcast explores how change punctuates our lives, how it can totally derail us and define who we are. How we confront it, react to it and how we try to activate change has never been more important than in this moment.”

No Worries If Not by Lily O’Farrell - “Feminist cartoonist and writer Lily O’Farrell - aka @VulgaDrawings - looks at internet culture - from alpha males to almond mums - and how it affects women and non-binary people.”

• Dance it Out: What better way to shake off the blues than with some good old-fashioned dance therapy? Put on your favorite tunes, let your hair down, and move that body. Whether it's a solo dance party or a spontaneous dance-off with friends, let the music be your release. You don’t have to be any sort of professional to get the benefits of a good old dance, if you don’t like to dance solo then check out our YouTube channel for some dance sessions with Lyndsey.

• Strength Training for the Soul: Lifting heavy weights isn't just for the gym—it's also for the soul. Channel your inner strength and resilience by setting small, achievable goals. Each accomplishment, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating. When you get strong AF you’re building more than muscles; you’re building an unstoppable mindset too!

• Read and Reflect: As a fellow book lover, I know the power of getting lost in the pages of a good book. Curl up with a cup of tea, dive into a captivating story, or explore literature that challenges societal norms. Let the words inspire and empower you to keep fighting for a world where everyone's story is valued, whilst beating away the blues that can come with this dark cold month. If you’re a SLAM member you have access to our free book library so take advantage of it! if you're not (why not??) then that’s as good an incentive as any to join us <3

• Connect and Support: There is so much strength in unity. Reach out to your loved ones, check in on friends. Share your experiences, lend an understanding ear, and let others know that they're not alone. Our collective strength is a force to be reckoned with and it’s true what they say - a problem shared is a problem cared. If you’re feeling lonely this winter - we see you. Take this as a sign to join the most supportive gym community in G town - we have space for you. Join our SGPT 4 week trial here

• Anti-Diet Revolution: January often brings a bombardment of diet culture nonsense. We’re calling time on that BS and want you to be able to embrace your incredible body. Nourish yourself with love, listen to your body's cues, and reject the toxic messages that try to dictate how you should look or feel. You are worthy now friend and no amount of weight loss or gain ever changes that. If you need a helping hand to navigate January nonsense then follow us on socials and come join us if it feels right. we got you <3

Remember, fierce queens, January is just a chapter, not the whole story. Embrace the challenges, dance through the darkness, and let your strength shine. Our mantra for this year - THRIVING IN OUR PRIMARY TIME LINE - life is too short to do otherwise and we’re ready to stop surviving and start THRIVING - you in?