4 November 2026

November arrives. It is a time when people are gearing up for Christmas and excitement might be building.

However, for some people this is one of the hardest times of year. The clocks have gone back, it is dark by 6pm, the temperatures dip, and Christmas can prove an emotionally tricky time.

By implementing a few simple practices, we can develop mental wellbeing habits that will help us keep our mood balanced and feeling positive.

Morning Light

Getting daylight into our eyes first thing in the morning helps to regulate your circadian rhythm, your internal body clock. It is responsible for your sleep patterns, hormones and temperature control, so is a really important factor in maintaining good mental health.

When the days are shorter, try to get outside early on for natural daylight. Pull back the curtains wide, and try a lunchtime walk to maximise your sunlight exposure. Even on a darker day, natural daylight can give your mood a boost and encourages you to get outside for fresh air.

How MindSpace can help: Join us on Thursdays for an afternoon walk. We meet outside the MindSpace hub. Come down to The Wellbeing Garden for a help out session on a Monday afternoon or Wednesday morning. A great way to meet people, get outside and connect with nature.

Social Routines

We know there is a temptation to hibernate and become a bit hermit-like on a cold, dark wintry day but seeing other people is really important for your mental wellbeing. Try to make arrangements to see friends or neighbours and organise a meetup to get some social interaction in your day. It could be a simple tea or coffee, a walk, or a planned outing. Engaging with others is a real mood-booster and helps you feel connected and supported during these winter months.

Don’t forget to check in on others too. Elderly neighbours or friends who live alone may appreciate a quick call or offer of support. It’s the time to be kind to others and ourselves!

How MindSpace can help: Come along to one of our tea and chat sessions where you’re welcome to pop in for a warm cuppa and slice of cake. We have Wednesday tea and chat and Thursday tea and chat in the afternoons, we also have Friday tea and chat down at the garden (under shelter). If evenings work better, join us at the Night Light Cafe on a Thursday evening where we get out the board games and there is plenty of opportunity to chat and make friends.

Moving your movement

If darker evenings make working out feel harder, try to switch things up so you exercise earlier in the day or first thing in the morning. Motivation may be a bit lower during winter but maintaining your regular workouts is key to feeling good and keeping the endorphins flowing.

You could opt for more indoor workouts or make it fun and arrange to do a class or something with friends to help keep you accountable.

How MindSpace can help: We have a range of fitness and exercise classes for you to try from more gentle Thursday yoga and Pilates on Mondays, to a more energetic boxing class, netball or basketball. We also have our Friday running group, giving you fresh air, exercise and social interaction in one go!

Cosy Season

While getting outside and meeting others is really important, it doesn’t mean you can’t embrace the season and keep things cosy. Make your home environment warm and inviting. With warm jumpers, snuggly socks, a hearty dinner, maybe even a few candles, you can create a lovely ambience and it is an important act of self-care. Get comfortable with a favourite film or book and enjoy the cosiness of the season.

How MindSpace can help: If you want to experience some cosiness and company, come along to some of our evening sessions. Our new Threads group is perfect for those who love stitching, knitting and crochet. They meet on alternate Wednesday evenings. We also have the Night Light Cafe on Thursday evening, and Playing with Words once a month on a Monday evening.

Be kind to yourself

It’s also important to accept that at this time of year, sometimes our energy levels are a little more depleted. It is naturally a season for some rest and recovery. Amid the busy Christmas schedules, it can be hard to find time for yourself. Extend yourself a little grace and try not to put too much pressure or expectation on yourself. While it is important to remain active and social, it is also ok to occasionally say ‘no’ and take some time out.

How MindSpace can help: When you need to escape the chaos of daily life, come to the MindSpace hub for an informal mindfulness session. It is a weekly group for meditation, reflection, and a chance to pause and settle your mind. We also offer 1-1 listening appointments for a chance to talk in a confidential and non judgemental space.

Try to develop some of these mental wellbeing habits by incorporating activities into your week so that you can feel good no matter the weather. Shorter days need not always mean a lower mood if we continue to prioritise our mental health.