To help residents keep healthy this winter, the Bracknell Forest Council public health team have launched the 5 Ways to Winter Wellness campaign. As well as providing advice on how to stay well during winter, we are hosting a variety of activities across the borough to keep people healthy and moving.
As well as the winter cold and flu viruses, the cold weather can also exacerbate long-term health conditions. This can leave people feeling isolated at home, so winter is an important time to keep physically and mentally well.
The 5 Ways to Winter Wellness include:
- get protected – booking your flu and COVID-19 vaccinations
- self-care – little things we can do to look after ourselves
- wellbeing and welfare – finding support to pay for bills
- mental health – looking after your mental wellbeing
- get active – keeping active even when it’s cold
Some of the activities available to residents will include:
- Tai Chi
- nutrition workshops
- wellness checks
All sessions are free to attend and will be led by qualified instructors. The activities will be in multiple locations across the borough, including libraries and the community winter hubs.
Cllr Dale Birch, chair of the Bracknell Forest Council health and wellbeing board and executive member for health, said:
“Winter can be an extremely difficult time for those with a long-term health condition or for those who are isolated. Please remember to check in on your family, friends and neighbours and check they are prepared for the colder weather.
“This year we really want as many residents as possible to use the 5 Ways to Winter Wellness and keep themselves and their family well. Whether it’s booking your flu jab, taking time to do the things that make you happy, or trying a new sport, the winter is the perfect time to do this, and we are here to help.”
Heema Shukla, deputy director of public health for Bracknell Forest, said:
“It is important for all of us to keep moving in winter, connect with others and take small steps to look after our physical and mental health.
“5 Ways to Winter Wellness offers opportunities to meet people and participate in different activities where you live.
“Bracknell Forest has many indoor and natural outdoor assets where different activities will be taking place during the winter months.”
To find your nearest activities, visit our public health portal or your local library.
