Improve your wellbeing during Winter With colder weather and darker, shorter days ahead, the winter months can often be challenging and have an impact on how we feel. It can be common to feel a bit low in winter and normal to feel a dip in mood and energy levels. This may be known as the winter blues, seasonal depression, or Seasonal Affective Disorder, known as SAD. However, there are a few things we can do to look after ourselves during this time of the year Think about the basics and what your body needs… Get some light If you are able and try to get outside, even for a short time, the fresh air and natural light can help lift our mood. If you do go out, wear plenty of warm layers and don’t forget your hat and gloves! If getting out of the house is difficult, try to make your home as light and airy as possible and sit near a window during daylight hours. Exposing ourselves to natural light can help our inner body clock understand the difference between night and day, making you feel more alert in the day and helping you sleep better at night. Eat well and keep warm What we eat affects how we feel so focussing on eating healthy and balanced meals can help improve our mood. This ensures our bodies are getting the nutrition and essential vitamins we need to stay healthy. When it gets really cold, wrap up and stay indoors and keep the room you spend most time in as comfortably warm as you can. Move as much as you are able, If you’re indoors more than usual, stay as active as you can. It’s a good idea to get up and move around every hour, which will boost your mood and your energy levels. This could be a short walk, or a few chair-based gentle stretches, most importantly, go at your own pace, it isn’t a race, this is just for you! Research shows physical activity can improve our mood and help manage stress and anxiety. Do more of what you enjoy and connect to others Do the things you love to do! Use the winter months to suit yourself, it might be getting cosy with a good book, listening to a story on the radio, or catching up with a friend for a cuppa in person or on the phone. Often, we don’t give ourselves permission to enjoy ourselves when we feel low, or feel we’re not worthy of spending this time on ourselves. Being nice to yourself is not self-indulgent – it’s showing yourself respect and care when you need it the most. Remember, you are not alone, and seasons change Remind yourself that winter is temporary and there are others who will be feeling the effects of the season. Chances are you won’t be the only one who is struggling, try to connect with others that you trust and share how you feel. Manage Cookie Preferences