John Truong of Barnet-based charity Meridian Wellbeing with tips for the new season

Branches of a tree in spring — Credit – 02addicted, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

As the final weeks of winter slowly pass, many of us are noticing small but welcome signs that spring is on its way. Brighter mornings, slightly longer days and the first signs of warmer weather. All of these things can have a positive impact on our wellbeing. After the winter period, with the inevitable changes to our routines, the spring offers us something new as we look to the year ahead.

Winter can be an enjoyable season but it can bring challenges that affect both our physical and mental wellbeing. These include reduced daylight, fewer opportunities to exercise outdoors, rising living costs and increased isolation can all place extra pressures on us.

For more than 30 years, we at Meridian Wellbeing, a Barnet-based mental health and wellbeing charity, have been supporting local people to look after themselves. As a local charity rooted in the borough, we understand the everyday pressures people face, and we work closely with our community to offer practical, accessible support.

We have a long history of delivering NHS-equivalent services and wellbeing support to the people of Barnet. This includes services like the Barnet Wellbeing Hub, talking therapies such as CBT or counselling, our mental health befriending service, information and advice, and much more. Alongside this, we run over one hundred physical and social activities each month to help you to maintain both a routine and connection – even in winter.

Why winter can affect our wellbeing

During winter, shorter daylight hours can disrupt our sleep patterns and energy levels. Many people find it harder to get outside, particularly during working hours, which can limit our movements and reduce our exposure to natural light. The colder weather can also make it more difficult to maintain a regular exercise routine, while the time we spend at home can reduce our chances for social contact.

These factors can gradually affect our mood and motivation. We may feel more tired, less interested in activities we usually enjoy, or more anxious about everyday concerns. Even those who usually feel resilient can notice a dip in their wellbeing during the colder months.

Why are some people more affected by the winter months?

Seasonal Affective Disorder, often known as SAD, affects around two million people in the UK. It’s linked to changes in daylight and commonly includes symptoms such as persistent low mood, fatigue and changes in sleep or appetite.

Again, research shows that a combination of regular activity, social connection, light exposure and talking therapies can help manage symptoms.

With spring arriving hopefully soon, the increased daylight, longer days and warmth are an opportunity to exercise, spend time with others or simply explore small steps which can make a big difference to our wellbeing.

Small steps that make a difference

Supporting our wellbeing at this time of year doesn’t require dramatic changes. Simple, manageable steps can help us to maintain balance and routine. Keeping active is one of the most effective ways for us to support both our physical and mental health.

At Meridian Wellbeing, we run a range of indoor activities, including Pilates and general fitness sessions, which offer a welcoming way to stay active without worrying about the weather.

As the days get longer, spending some time outdoors, even briefly, can also be helpful. A short walk during lunchtime or sitting near a window can support natural body rhythms. Activities such as yoga and Tai Chi, which we also offer, combine movement with breathing and focus.

Staying socially connected is equally important. During winter, isolation can creep in, especially for people who live alone or have limited mobility. Our Wellbeing Cafés in Hendon and New Barnet provide relaxed spaces where people can meet others, have a conversation and feel part of a community.

For those who prefer support at home, our website also provides a range of self-guided wellbeing tools. These include relaxation exercises, mindfulness resources and practical tips that can be used in your own time to support your wellbeing.

Most importantly, we want to empower you to choose what works for you.

If you need extra support

Spring can be a time of renewal, but it can also bring challenges. In these situations, talking therapies can offer you valuable support.

Our counselling and CBT services provide confidential, professional help delivered by trained and qualified therapists. Our services offer a safe space for you to talk through any difficulties and to develop practical strategies to support yourself. Our support is tailored to you, because we believe that everyone’s experience is different.

Support close to your home

At Meridian Wellbeing, we are committed to making support services accessible to everyone across Barnet and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking for advice, community activities, structured wellbeing programmes or professional therapy – we’re here to help.

If you would like information or guidance about supporting your mental health and wellbeing, you can visit meridianwellbeing.com.

John Truong is head of operations at Meridian Wellbeing

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