Sharing our latest wellbeing tips for war widows, defence and veteran families

Wellbeing often grows in the spaces where we connect — with others, with our bodies, and with the moment we’re in. It can be found in a shared story between generations, or in the courage it takes to step onto a dance floor and move to the rhythm alongside strangers. For war widows, defence and veteran families, these moments of connection and presence can offer real belonging and joy. This month’s tips, drawn from our latest Wellbeing Newsletter, explore the power of connecting across generations, and how line dancing can be a joyful, grounding form of self-care.

Connecting and supporting across generations

Having connections with peers close in age is incredibly important for physical, emotional, and mental health. But connection across generations matters just as much. Whether with family, friends, or people in the community, taking time to connect across age groups can improve wellbeing for everyone involved, offering a sense of purpose, support, and belonging.  

Older generations can share stories, life experiences, and wisdom. Younger generations bring energy, new skills, and fresh perspectives. Together, these exchanges can help people navigate life’s challenges, reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness, and strengthen resilience. Research shows that loneliness and isolation take a real toll on psychological and physical health, so these relationships can help buffer against those effects. This is particularly relevant for the veteran community whether talking to family or others from the veteran community. Generations that have lived through and experienced defence life and challenges can provide support, understanding, guidance and feelings of connection that is hard to find within the wider community.   

Ideas to start building bonds

Here are some simple and achievable ideas to start building relationships across generations:  

• Looking through old and new photographs together  
• Sharing stories and experiences from both sides of the age spectrum  
• Learning new skills from each other, such as technology, crafts, or cooking  
• Attending community events and activities together  
• Scheduling regular phone or video calls, or catch-ups  
• Sharing common interests and passions  

Connection doesn’t have to look the same for everyone — what works will depend on the individual and the relationship. Even small moments can make a meaningful, lasting difference. Every conversation, shared story, and act of togetherness helps strengthen bonds between generations. By making time to connect, we can build a strong sense of belonging, support, and wellbeing for years to come.  

This month, try reaching out to a family member or someone in your community, and spend time doing an activity or sharing stories and skills. You may be surprised by what you can learn from each other.

The benefits of line dancing

Line dancing is a simple, joyful form of self-care that invites people of all ages to mindfully move, connect, and be present in the moment together. As you listen to the music and follow the sequences moving in time with those around you, your attention shifts away from thinking and into feeling as your body and breath match the rhythm of the music. The repeated steps become grounding, helping you to focus on the moment and let go of the day.

Joining a dance group asks you to be vulnerable as you take those first awkward steps not knowing the moves, laughing at missed turns, or allowing yourselves to be seen. This is all a natural part of learning.

Vulnerability, belonging, and the brave space

Brene Brown’s research into emotions highlights vulnerability as central to meaningful human experiences and reminds us that brave spaces help people show up more fully. Line dancing does not require a partner, perfection, or previous experience. Everyone faces the same direction, learns together, and moves as part of a shared rhythm.

There is comfort in being one person in a line, and confidence in realising that mistakes are part of the dance. This creates a sense of belonging without pressure to perform. For children, adults and older people alike, line dancing can support confidence, playfulness, emotional wellbeing, and social connection. It reminds you that self-care does not always need to be quiet or solitary. Sometimes, self-care looks like music, movement, laughter and the courage to step onto the floor, just as you are.

If you are interested in giving line dancing a try, check out your local pub what’s on page, local council community centre, and line dancing social media pages.

To find out the latest wellbeing tips or find a free wellbeing activity, please subscribe to our Wellbeing Newsletter. 

You can also find all of our wellbeing tips, practical information sheets and guides to support you and your family’s wellbeing, visit our Resource Hub today.