5 tips to stay sane during the winter months on the Isles of Scilly

As Autumn slips past and the seasonal businesses close for the summer, we’re heading into winter here on St Martin’s. Most locals look forward to winter on Scilly as they generally have more free time.

The weather always dominates island life. However, the prospect of months of wild, wet and windy weather, with not too many opportunities for heading out on the water, can feel quite daunting. 

In this blog, I share my top tips which help me stay sane during the winter, including getting outside every day, making the most of any calm weather and finding yourself an accountability buddy.

Living on Scilly can be very different to the mainland, but I hope you find these tips helpful - particularly if winter isn’t your favourite season.

#1 Get outside

I have to go outside every day, being surrounded by nature grounds me. With the windy weather winter brings, more often than not it’s not possible to go kayaking or paddleboarding. But being outside is so important.

It’s good to stay connected to the seasons, maintains your Vitamin D levels, it just makes you feel better. Remember the popular quote, ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing’.

As well as being out on the water, I also love walking so I try to go on a walk every morning. Getting outside first thing, even on cloudy days can reset your circadian rhythms which will help with your sleep patterns.

Go for a quick stroll at lunchtime, get off the bus a couple of stops early and walk the rest of the way home if you can. However you manage it, getting outside will help you stay sane during the winter.

#2 Check the weather forecast and make the most of calm weather 

It’s vital, if you’re planning any activities on the water, to check the weather forecast, tide times etc. and plan accordingly. This is even more important at this time of the year.

The wind may have dropped off after a big storm but the lingering wave height and swell could still make conditions unsafe. The air temperature will be cooler than the summer, so dress appropriately. It’s a good idea to take extra layers in a dry bag.

The water temperature will also be lower so if you fall in cold water shock could be an issue and it will take you much longer to warm up.

These are the weather apps I use to check the forecast. Of all of them, I find Windfinder is the best for predicting wave height, direction and wave period. I keep a close eye on the weather in the winter. Calm days are rare here. But that makes them even more special, and getting out on the water feels like such a treat. 

#3 Find an accountability buddy  

Even with the best will in the world, it can be hard sometimes to find the motivation to go outside and do something during the winter. An accountability buddy is someone who can help you stay on track by holding you responsible for whatever targets you set yourself.

I love sea swimming. There’s a group of women on St Martin’s who swim every Sunday morning, throughout the year. There are some mornings when the last thing I want to do is swim, but I go because I won’t let my swim buddies down. You always feel even better after those swims!

Maybe there’s a local club you could join which organises events. If you join, commit to turning up, then you’ll not only have an enjoyable and safe time out on the water, but get to share your experience with like-minded people.

#4 Look for glimmers to stay sane during the winter

A glimmer is a micro moment that sparks joy, peace and a sense of safety. These fleeting positive experiences could be seeing a rainbow, a spider's web bejewelled by dewdrops on a misty morning, hearing your favourite song on the radio or a random act of kindness. Get into the habit of trying to find one every day. Glimmers can build a greater sense of resilience and well-being.

Winters can be long and difficult even on Scilly but, if you look for them, you will always find a glimmer.

#5 Plan a holiday

Sometimes what you really need to cope with dark cold winters is to know you have a trip away planned. Ideally, this would be to the Isles of Scilly, but a trip anywhere, however short, gives you something to look forward to.

To me, holiday planning is a huge part of the overall joy that the holiday gives you. You research, you dream, you book the trip, you imagine what it’s going to be like and then you get to do it all for real.

Obviously any trip to Scilly would ideally include some time spent out on the water!

Winter can be the least favourite season for many people. If you’re thinking about how to stay sane during the winter, I hope my tips will help. Getting outside is so good for you. If you’re planning on heading out on the water, check the forecasts to make sure it's safe. Find an accountability buddy to share your outdoor experience. Most importantly, look for glimmers. A daily moment of joy can brighten up the darkest winter.

If planning a holiday to Scilly will help disperse your winter blues, we offer kayak, paddleboard, and snorkel hire from St Martin’s. We’ll happily help you plan your holiday experiences and give you something to dream about during the winter months.