Winter self care tips from Mental Health First Aid England

This great article from Mental Health First Aid England is about making small changes in relation to self care in Winter is very practical and helpful. I can highly recommend their Mental Health First Aider training courses.

Number 6 on this list resonates with me in relation to noticing what you’re grateful for in the everyday.

Winter can be a wonderful season. Its full of cosy moments, celebration, and connection. But it can also leave many of us feeling tired, stretched, or running on empty. Shorter days, colder weather, and busy schedules mean it’s even more important to make space for ourselves.

Here are seven simple, uplifting self-care ideas to help you reset, rebalance, and protect your wellbeing over the colder months.

Seven self-care tips to recharge your mind and body

1. Ease into your day

When the mornings feel darker and slower, allowing yourself a gentler start can make a world of difference. A few extra minutes in bed, a warm breakfast, or stepping outside for fresh air can help you feel grounded before the day gathers speed. Think of it as giving yourself permission to begin with intention rather than urgency.

2. Build your own comfort zone

Winter invites us to create cosy spaces and nourishing rituals. Whether it’s lighting a candle, picking up a well-loved book, or spending time on a hobby that lets your mind switch off, small comforts help you recharge and feel more settled.

3. Move in a way that supports you

Staying active doesn’t have to mean pushing yourself hard. Gentle stretches, walks in nature, or low-impact exercise can boost your mood and energy levels. Movement is less about performance and more about reconnecting with your body, especially when colder weather encourages us to stay indoors.

4. Take a mindful tech break

Screens dominate our days, and winter often means even more time inside. Try stepping away from your phone or laptop for a short window — even an hour. You may be surprised by how refreshing it feels to be fully present, without notifications competing for your attention.

5. Protect your ‘me-time’

Self-care doesn’t need to be lengthy or elaborate. Sometimes 20 quiet minutes doing something just for you can help you reset. That might be journaling, making a favourite drink, or simply sitting still. Prioritising yourself gives you the energy to show up for others too.

6. Rediscover simple joys

Winter can be a great time to lean into the activities that make you smile. We recommend things like rewatching a favourite film, playing a board game, baking something comforting, or spending time on a creative project. These small, joyful moments can help lift our mood and remind us to embrace ease where we can.

7. Reflect and reset

A moment of reflection can help bring clarity during busier times. Checking in with how you’re feeling, what you need, and what’s working for you can help guide your next steps. A simple reset - jotting down thoughts, planning ahead, or acknowledging positive moments - can make the weeks feel more manageable.

Why winter self-care matters

Taking care of ourselves isn’t optional; it’s what enables us to cope, adapt, and support our wellbeing through the colder season. Self-care is about recognising your needs and responding with kindness, one small decision at a time.

Start small, stay kind to yourself, and let winter be a season of wellbeing.