Winter brings shorter days, colder weather and a rise in coughs, colds and low energy. It is one of the hardest times of the year for people to stay healthy, motivated and connected.
For workplaces, this makes December a great moment to double down on simple, supportive wellbeing habits that help everyone feel a little more energised.
Below are some practical, realistic ideas that teams can use right away. No drastic routines. No guilt. Just easy steps that make a noticeable difference.
Move a little more each day
Regular movement helps circulation, boosts mood and strengthens the immune system. In winter, people tend to sit for longer and feel less motivated, so small bursts of activity are ideal.
Try:
- Short stretch breaks during meetings
- A weekly workplace fitness session
- Lunchtime walks in natural light
- Mobility or yoga sessions for stiff backs and tight shoulders
Even five minutes makes a difference.
Support energy through simple nutrition
Eating well in winter is not about perfection. It is about small choices that keep energy steady and support immune health.
Encourage staff to:
- Stay hydrated during the day
- Eat a balance of colourful fruit and vegetables
- Add warming foods like soups, stews and whole grains
- Avoid long gaps without eating
Workplaces can help by offering healthy snacks or hosting a nutrition workshop such as Nourish Your Mind.
Make the most of limited daylight
Lack of daylight is a major reason for low mood and low energy in winter. Even ten minutes of natural light can help regulate sleep and improve focus.
Ideas for teams:
- Morning sunlight walks
- Encouraging staff to step outside at lunch
- Choosing meeting rooms with good natural light
- Allowing flexible breaks on bright winter days
These small adjustments help people feel more awake and balanced.
Prioritise rest and recovery
Many people head into December feeling tired, and long workdays combined with seasonal pressures can add to stress.
Workplaces can support rest by:
- Encouraging regular breaks
- Reducing meeting overload
- Allowing quieter working hours when possible
- Offering mindfulness or reset sessions to help people slow down
Workshops such as Cultivating Mental Wellbeing or Reset are ideal during this period.
Keep winter germs at bay
Colds and flu spread more easily in winter. With a few simple habits, workplaces can stay healthier and reduce sick days.
Share quick reminders about:
- Handwashing and hygiene
- Keeping shared spaces clean
- Staying home when unwell
- Opening windows briefly to improve airflow
Pair these messages with a calm, supportive tone rather than anything that feels medical or heavy.
Create moments of connection
Winter can feel isolating, especially when energy is low. Connection helps people feel supported and reduces stress.
Try:
- Team check-ins
- Small group sessions or workshops
- A shared wellbeing challenge for December or look to start something in January
- Celebrating small wins together
These social touchpoints help lift morale during a demanding month.
How That Day can support your team this winter
That Day offers fitness, wellbeing and mental health sessions that help teams feel energised and supported throughout the winter season. Popular December sessions include:
- Nourish Your Mind: Boost Focus and Mental Health with Delicious Food
- Healthy Habits for Wellbeing and Vitality
- Cultivating Mental Wellbeing: A Meditation Journey
- Everyday Stress Solutions
- Office Yoga and Mobility Classes
- Reset
You can book these and more by signing up to the That Day booking system.
