Social Wellness in February: MOVE together
When we think about exercise, we often think about the physical benefits such as reduced risk of disease, lower blood pressure, better sleep Benefits of exercise - NHS. Many of us are also aware of the positive impact movement can have on our mental health and wellbeing such as lowering stress, boosting feel-good hormones such as dopamine and serotonin. Does exercise help mental health?
However, moving our body doesn't just mean feeling strong mentally and physically - it can also enhance our social wellness. Social wellness refers to the quality of our relationships, connection, and support, whether in the workplace, or with family and friends. Feeling comfortable expressing yourself and connecting with others can significantly contribute to overall physical and mental health How Physical Activity Can Improve Your Social Wellness - Everyone Active.
Time to Talk Day takes place on 5th February 2026 and is organised by Mind to encourage open and honest conversations about mental health Time to Talk Day - Mind. These conversations can help reduce stigma and make people feel more comfortable seeking help if they need it. This February, we are encouraging people to speak up about how they feel and to use physical activity as an opportunity to start these conversations.
How is physical activity linked with social wellness?
Humans are innately social creatures. We thrive in groups where teamwork and shared responsibilities help us connect and feel supported. Physical activity reflects this, not only by strengthening the body but also bringing people together to build lasting and meaningful relationships.
Exercise naturally creates shared experiences, helping to build trust and emotional support. Aerobic movements like running and cycling, help produce oxytocin, a hormone linked to trust and connection.
Being active with others can also boost motivation. When we exercise in groups, we’re more likely to push ourselves, which can be explained by the Köhler Effect – the tendency to exert greater effort when working with others.
This February, we encourage you to use movement as a way to build connection with those around you and start open conversations.
Here are some tips to get you started:
Book a class with a friend or colleague! Our MOVE programme has over 130 activities a week, with staff able to access classes for just £7.99 a month. These classes can help you stay active and move alongside others, to build social connection. There are plenty of group fitness classes to choose from, such as Dancefit, Yoga for Office Workers, and strength classes. It's a good opportunity to work towards shared goals in a group setting and foster a sense of community.
Play some team sports! Book outdoor tennis, basketball or volleyball on the MOVE app. Team sports are a great way to boost teamwork and build stronger bonds. These activities require cooperation and communication - making team sports a great way to build social connection in the community. We also have a Badminton community bringing people together which you can access on our Teams channel here Badminton | FAC - MOVE | Microsoft Teams.
Join a fitness challenge to strengthen relationships and motivate one another to keep going. Bristol's biggest running event of the year, the Great Bristol Run is happening on the 10th May 2026 and UWE staff, students and alumni can access discounted prices for the 10K and Half Marathon. This is part of our TRY series, where you can find more information and sign up here TRY-Series - Running | UWE Bristol.
Spend some time outdoors. One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost social wellness is by going for a walk. Walking outdoors with a friend, colleague, or family member encourages conversation whilst also experiencing the positive benefits of nature. As the days get a little longer, we can use this time to be outdoors and connect through conversations with those around us.
So, whether it’s a class, walk or challenge, consider moving together this February and using that time to talk and connect.
If you need further information or want to access support, please check out the following resources.
Staff Wellbeing support for staff
Students Wellbeing support - Health and wellbeing | UWE Bristol
Student Wisdom app Student wellbeing app: 24/7 support - Wellbeing support | UWE Bristol UWE code MHA261053