Finding your feet when the weather is bleak
How to Improve Your Mood During Bad Weather in Scotland
When storms hit Scotland, they don’t just bring high winds and heavy rain — they can also take a toll on our mental health and overall wellbeing. Days of bleak weather, dark skies, and being stuck indoors can leave many of us feeling low, anxious, or unmotivated.
If you’re searching for ways to improve your mood during bad weather, you’re not alone. Here are some simple, realistic ideas to support your mental wellbeing during storms, long rainy days, and gloomy Scottish weather.
1. Layer Up to Stay Warm and Comfortable
Staying warm is one of the easiest ways to support both physical and mental wellbeing during cold, wet weather. Extra layers, thick socks, cosy jumpers, and blankets help your body relax — and when your body feels safe and warm, your mind often follows.
Hot water bottles, heat packs, or simply holding a warm mug of tea can help fight that damp, bone-deep chill that’s so familiar during Scottish storms.
Also, if you have a basin or a bucket, all hail having your feet a bucket of warm water and soaking them.
Keywords: staying warm in winter, cold weather wellbeing, layering up indoors
2. Gentle Movement for Mental Health
When high winds and heavy rain make outdoor exercise difficult, gentle indoor movement can still make a big difference.
Try light stretching, yoga, or mobility exercises at home to release tension and boost your mood. Even a few minutes of movement — stretching your back, rolling your shoulders, or taking deep breaths — can support mental health during bad weather.
Keywords: indoor exercise Scotland, stretching for mental health, gentle movement at home
3. Slow Down and Embrace Cosy Indoor Activities
Stormy weather often forces us indoors, which can actually be an opportunity to rest and reset.
Cosy activities for rainy days include:
Reading a good book
Watching familiar, comforting programmes
Listening to podcasts or the radio while the rain falls outside
Rest is an important part of wellbeing, especially during long periods of dark or stormy weather.
Keywords: cosy activities rainy days, slow living winter, self care indoors
4. Stay Connected to Support Mental Wellbeing
Isolation can creep in during bad weather, particularly if travel is difficult.
Small acts of connection can lift your mood:
Writing a card or letter to a friend
Sending a thoughtful message
Checking in on neighbours or loved ones
I don’t think phone calls are a thing of the past… make one to a pal you haven’t spoken to in a while!
Even brief, everyday interactions can help you feel less alone during storms.
Keywords: staying connected in winter, mental health support Scotland, combating isolation
5. Eat Warm, Nourishing Food During Stormy Weather
Comfort food has its place — but adding warm, nourishing meals can help support energy levels and mood.
Soups, stews, porridge, and warm drinks are ideal during cold, wet weather. Staying hydrated is just as important in winter as it is in summer.
Keywords: winter comfort food, nourishing meals cold weather, eating well in winter
6. Use Light to Support Your Mood
Lack of daylight during Scottish winters and storms can affect mental health.
To brighten dark days:
Open curtains fully during daylight hours
Use lamps instead of harsh overhead lighting
Light candles in the evening (safely)
Daylight lamps can be especially helpful in the mornings if you struggle with low mood during darker months.
Keywords: light therapy Scotland, seasonal affective disorder support, coping with dark days
7. Be Kind to Yourself When the Weather Affects Your Mood
Feeling low during prolonged bad weather is completely normal. Storm anxiety, low motivation, or emotional fatigue don’t mean you’re failing — they mean you’re human.
Lower expectations where possible, celebrate small wins, and remember that rest is productive too.
Keywords: mental wellbeing winter, storm anxiety, self compassion mental health
Final Thoughts: Storms Don’t Last Forever
Severe weather can feel endless, but storms always pass. Until then, focusing on warmth, comfort, connection, and gentle routines can help protect your mental wellbeing.
Take care of yourself — especially when the weather is bleak. 💙
x