Winter can be a challenging time for many people. Shorter days, cold weather and extra pressures at home or work can make things difficult.

We’ve come up with some handy tips to help you this winter and will be sharing across our socials as part of our #WinterWellbeingTips

You shouldn’t need to re write your routine just to look after yourself. Small, simple steps can be enough to help you feel more steady.

The ideas below are meant to offer some suggestions to how you may be able to support your own wellbeing. You can use them in a way that suits your own life and energy! Even picking one new thing to try in your routine can make a difference.

What is wellbeing?

Good wellbeing does not mean everything is perfect or that you feel positive all the time. It means you have enough support, routines and resources to help you cope when things become difficult.

This could be:

• regular rest
• time with people you trust
• a manageable routine or knowing where to go for help

Everyone’s wellbeing looks different, and that is completely normal. What matters most is finding what helps you feel more steady and able to manage your own daily life.

Here are some ways you can support your wellbeing:

Stay connected

Staying in touch with others can reduce stress and help to ease loneliness.

During winter, routines often change, and people may see each other less. Small forms of contact can feel especially important. But connection doesn’t need to be a big commitment. A quick chat or a short message can still help you feel supported.

Here are some examples for what you could try:

• A short phone call with a friend
• Arranging a warm drink with someone you trust
• Checking in with a friends, family or even a neighbour
• Joining an online group linked to one of your hobbies or interests
• Letting someone know if you are finding the day difficult
• Speaking to a support service if things feel too much

Connection is not about keeping up with everyone! It is about choosing people that make you feel safe and leave you feeling good.

Make time for things that bring you comfort or joy

The winter months can be busy, tiring or overwhelming. It is easy to forget those small things that help you relax. Making space for activities that bring you comfort can help to improve your mood. Comfort will look different for each person.

Some ideas you might enjoy could be:

• Reading, crafting, drawing, or other creative activities
• Cooking something warm or familiar
• Watching a film or series you know you enjoy
• Listening to music, radio or podcasts
• Having quiet time for yourself without any pressure to achieve anything or ‘be productive’!
• Small moments for yourself can help to break up the day and help you feel more like yourself.

Keep some movement in your routine

Movement can support both physical and emotional wellbeing. It can help to ease tension, lift your mood, help with sleep, and give your day some extra structure. You do not need a strict plan. Gentle movement that suits your lifestyle can be enough to make a difference.

It can be harder to keep up with exercise when it’s darker and colder, but try and change your exercise to suit what your comfortable with.

Some examples could be:

• A short walk
• Stretching in the morning or just before bed
• Following an online exercise video
• Every bit of movement counts! Just start small and keep it manageable.
• Spend time outdoors
• Natural light and fresh air can make a real difference to how you feel during the colder months.

If you can go outside:

• Walk while it is light outside
• See if you can combine outdoor time with movement

If going outside isn’t easy:

• Sit near a window to make the most of natural light
• Open a window for fresh air when comfortable
• The aim is to try and bring a little natural light into your day.

Keep your days gently structured 

• Getting up and going to bed at roughly the same time
• Planning one task or activity each day
• Keeping a short, realistic to do list
• Starting the day with something familiar, like a warm drink or a favourite programme

A gentle routine can help you feel steadier and give your day a natural sense of flow. 

Be kind to your energy 

• Take regular breaks to help keep your energy balanced.
• Mix busy days with quieter moments where you can 
• Notice what gives you energy as well as what uses it up
• Remember that rest is an important part of caring for yourself

Ask for support when you need it

• Talking things through with someone you trust
• Asking for help with something practical
• Getting advice or emotional support from a service
• Reaching out early, before things start to feel overwhelming

We’re here to help

At Disability Together we have lots of ways to help you to better wellbeing. With lived-experience of disability we understand the challenges and can help you to better wellbeing.

Check out our services and give us a call if you’d like a helping hand to get started

• • Advice and wellbeing service

• • Someone to talk to

• • Explore the countryside and beyond

• • Meet new people, join a club

• • Look after my health and wellbeing

• • Counselling

#WinterWellbeingTips

Have you spotted our social posts? Each post includes a local photo taken by Gaye, our talented volunteer photographer at Disability Together. Find out more about the photographer behind our Winter wellbeing campaign.