With winter just around the corner, the days may be chillier and the nights longer - but that doesn’t mean you have to slow down. Ryman residents find plenty of ways to stay active, connected, and uplifted during the colder months, and they’ve shared some of their tips and experiences here.  

1. Walk for wellness 

Many Ryman residents have formed their own walking groups with friends from their village community. Some have also taken part in our Walking for Wellness challenge and found it’s done wonders for their fitness, confidence, and energy levels. Resident Glynne says she felt so much more confident after taking part in the challenge that she and her husband flew to the UK to tackle the Monsal Trail! 

Scheduling regular times to walk and talk with friends or family – maybe even finishing with a café visit and a treat – is a simple, enjoyable way to feel your best in winter.

Glynne fulfilling her dream to walk the Monsal Trail.

2. Improve your BAFFS  

Ryman resident Leigh is in his 80s and keeps moving throughout winter with regular stretching and weight training, along with outdoor activities like walking and a round of golf when the sun’s out. 

He emphasises the importance of balance, agility, fitness, flexibility, and strength – collectively known as BAFFS. Leigh makes time to work on all five regularly and has inspired others in the village to join him. Plenty of residents now take part in Leigh’s BAFFS sessions, and with Triple A classes, yoga, and aquarobics in the village pool also on offer, there’s something for everyone. 

If you are interested in trying a Triple A Class for yourself, check out these great free workouts. 

Leigh leading a stretching class for fellow residents on TVNZ's Breakfast Show.

3. Bring nature indoors

Adding greenery to your indoor spaces is a lovely way to bring the outside in, purify the air and brighten up your space.  

Just ask Ryman resident Kate, who’s turned her apartment into a lush retreat filled with thriving indoor plants and year-round colour, bringing her joy and comfort every day. 

Check out Kate’s beautiful home and all her favourite plants here – plus, her tips on how to create your own green oasis.  

Kate tending to plants on her balcony.

4. Engage in creative hobbies

Getting creative is a great way to keep your mind active. For example, at one village a resident-led painting group has formed thanks to Malcolm, who shares his passion for art by teaching fellow residents new painting techniques through group projects designed to build skills and confidence.   

“We’re trying to paint more than just pretty pictures,” he says.  

in Ryman villages, there is always a full calendar of activities and events – whether resident-led like Malcolm’s painting group or organised by the village team – to pick and choose from. 

The painting group in action.

5. Connect over a meal

One of the most important parts of emotional wellbeing over winter is staying connected with others. There’s nothing like getting together over a hearty, flavour-packed meal to warm you from the inside out, and Bert Sutcliffe Village resident Robyn swears by her ratatouille recipe from her much-loved copy of the Joy of Cooking, given to her by her next door neighbour in 1964. 

Packed with vegetables, this classic French dish is as delicious as it is nourishing. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started, this easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for sharing with friends and family. 

Whether it’s keeping up a walking routine, getting involved in group activities, or simply sharing a meal with others, Ryman residents find plenty of ways to feel their best through the chilly season and beyond. 

Robyn's favourite ratatouille recipe comes from her trusty Joy of Cooking book.