Wellbeing this Winter

The winter months can be a difficult time for everyone, and it’s important to look after our wellbeing and mental health, as well as looking after those around us. 

As we continue to experience short days and cold weather (but without the excitement of Christmas and New Year), January can often feel like a hard month. Next Monday (16th January) is known as Blue Monday, which has been coined the ‘most depressing day of the year’. So, if you’re struggling right now, know that you’re not alone and help is out there.

To help you beat any January Blues you might be experiencing, we’ve put together eight top tips for looking after yourself this winter. If you find them useful, share them with friends and family to help them stay well too.

Eight ways to look after your wellbeing this winter:
1. Be kind to yourself. Everything doesn’t go to plan all the time, so go easy on yourself this winter. Enjoy the small things, do things you love, and try and find ways to adapt if needed.
2. Keep connected to friends and family. If you are alone, then you might want to look into volunteering. Giving back and helping others can really make you and others feel good.
3. Get outside for some sunlight and exercise. Motivation to exercise in winter months can be difficult, so choose the warmest, sunniest part of the day to get out. Take a brisk walk or light jog to keep yourself moving and warm.
4. Keep to a daily routine – with shorter, colder days, it can feel harder to keep our normal activities going. We usually feel better if we’re up and dressed, eating at regular mealtimes and going to bed at the same time.
5. Avoid comparisons, especially online. Remember, many people only share the best bits of their lives online and not the whole picture. Don’t feel bad if your life doesn’t feel as perfect as the snapshot of others’ they share online.
6. Enjoy some ‘Me’ time. Try to find a small amount of time every day to do something just for you – anything from a long bath, going on a walk, or reading a chapter of your favourite book.
7. Try and get some good, uninterrupted sleep. A good night’s sleep can have a huge impact on your wellbeing and happiness. Try to keep to regular sleep patterns as much as possible over the winter months. If you struggle with sleep, try these techniques.
8. Ask for help – if you’re struggling, it’s ok to ask for help. There’s always someone you can talk to. Keep these numbers in your phone so they’re easily available if you need them:

Many of our projects and services can help those struggling with their wellbeing. Have a look through our website or visit ywb.org.uk to find out more about how we can help you.

January is Greensand Country’s wellbeing month. Find out more about this by visiting their Facebook Page.