10 Ways to Feel More Connected This Winter

As the clocks go back and the days get shorter, winter brings cosy evenings, festive celebrations and opportunities to slow down. But for some, the colder months can also bring feelings of loneliness and isolation.

With fewer daylight hours, it's natural to notice changes in our energy and mood. According to the NHS, reduced sunlight during winter may affect our body's internal clock and chemicals such as serotonin and melatonin, which play a role in regulating mood and sleep.

When we're feeling low or tired, reaching out to others can sometimes feel more difficult. That's why making time for ourselves and maintaining meaningful connections can be especially important during winter.

Here are 10 simple ways to look after yourself and stay connected this season.

1. Make the most of daylight

With the sun setting earlier, try to spend some time outdoors during daylight hours. Whether it's a short morning walk, having your lunch outside or meeting a friend for coffee, a little natural light can help support your mood and sleep routine.

Even on cloudy days, getting outside can offer a refreshing change of scenery.

2. Make time for friends and family

It's easy to lose touch when evenings get darker and everyone prefers staying indoors. But meaningful connection doesn't always require big plans.

Try arranging a weekly phone call with a friend, having dinner together as a family or organising a regular catch-up. If you live alone, even a quick video call or a friendly message can help you feel connected to the people you care about.

3. Find a hobby you enjoy

Winter can be a lovely time to rediscover old hobbies or try something new. Reading, knitting, baking, painting or learning a new recipe can bring a sense of enjoyment and purpose to quieter days.

You could even turn your hobby into a shared activity by joining a book club, attending a workshop or exchanging recipes with friends.

4. Keep your body moving

Cold weather can make staying indoors more tempting, but keeping active is important for both physical and mental wellbeing.

You don't need an intense workout. A short walk, gentle stretching, dancing to your favourite music or joining a local exercise class can all help.

If you can, try activities that also create opportunities to meet others, such as walking groups, community yoga or parkrun.

5. Get involved in your local community

Sometimes, meaningful connections begin by simply showing up.

Look for local activities that interest you, whether that's a community café, library event, craft group or neighbourhood gathering.

Returning regularly can help you become familiar with people, build friendships and feel part of your community. Many activities are free or low-cost, too!

6. Give volunteering a go

Volunteering is a wonderful way to meet people, learn new skills and feel part of something meaningful.

From helping at a local food bank to supporting community events, there are plenty of ways to get involved throughout winter.

You could also volunteer with Marmalade Trust's Christmas Cheer project, which brings companionship and festive joy to people experiencing loneliness on Christmas Day.

7. Look after your physical wellbeing

Looking after your body can also help you feel better equipped to look after your emotional wellbeing.

Try to enjoy regular, balanced meals, stay hydrated and keep warm during colder weather. Nourishing winter meals such as homemade soups, vegetable stews and warming porridge can be comforting and help you maintain a balanced diet.

With less sunlight during winter, it's also worth paying attention to vitamin D. You can check the official NHS Vitamin D Guide to see if taking a daily winter supplement is recommended for you. And remember, getting enough rest and maintaining a regular sleep routine are important too.

8. Spend time connecting with nature

It's tempting to stay wrapped up indoors when the temperature drops, but nature still has plenty to offer during winter.

Take a walk through a local park, notice the changing trees, listen to birdsong or simply enjoy some fresh air.

You could invite a neighbour or friend to join you, turning a simple walk into an opportunity for conversation and connection.

And if heading outside isn't possible, bringing a little nature indoors through houseplants or watching birds from your window can be enjoyable too.

9. Make plans for the festive season

The festive season can bring opportunities for celebration, but it can also be a difficult time for those who don't have plans in place.

If you already have Christmas plans, consider checking in with someone who might be spending the day alone. A thoughtful invitation, phone call or friendly conversation can mean a lot.

If you're expecting to spend Christmas alone and would prefer some company, there may be opportunities to connect with others.

Marmalade Trust's Christmas Cheer supports eligible people experiencing loneliness in Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire.

For opportunities elsewhere in the UK, explore our Community Christmas project to find festive gatherings and activities in your area.

10. Be kind to yourself and seek support when you need it

Remember, it's okay to have days when you're not feeling your best, whatever the season.

If you're feeling disconnected, try taking small steps towards understanding what you need. Our Three-Step Approach to Loneliness can help you recognise loneliness, understand what it means for you and explore ways to build meaningful connections.

And if you're finding things particularly difficult, you don't have to manage everything alone.

You can speak to your GP or explore support from organisations such as Mind, Samaritans and NHS Every Mind Matters.

Staying connected this winter

Connection looks different for everyone. It might mean spending time with loved ones, joining a new community, enjoying a shared hobby or simply taking a moment to check in with someone.

You don't have to try everything at once. Start with something that feels right for you, and remember that even small moments of connection can make a difference.

Let's make room for connection this winter. 🧡