Winter’s shorter days, colder weather, and darker evenings can affect energy, motivation, and wellbeing. Workplaces can play a key role in supporting employees during this season with practical strategies that boost health, connection, and resilience.
1. Brighten the Day
Reduced daylight can impact mood and focus. Encourage employees to:
- Maximise natural light by sitting near windows or taking short outdoor breaks.1
- Keep consistent routines or flexible schedules to capture morning light.1
- Ensure indoor lighting is bright and comfortable for work.2
2. Nourish Winter Nutrition
Colder months often drive cravings for comfort foods. Support balanced eating by:3
- Offering seasonal fruits and vegetables like root veg, winter greens, apples, and pears.
- Promoting meals rich in whole grains, lean protein, and plant-based options.
- Providing warm, nourishing options like soups and stews.
- Keeping hydration visible and accessible.
3. Keep Moving
Physical activity combats winter sluggishness. Encourage:4
- Indoor stretches, stair breaks, or short exercise videos.
- Walking meetings during daylight hours when safe.
- Workplace challenges or community exercise events.
4. Support Mental Health
Winter can heighten stress and isolation. Foster a supportive culture by:5
- Promoting mental health resources and peer support.
- Encouraging regular breaks and pacing workloads.
- Hosting inclusive team activities or wellbeing workshops.
- Training managers to have supportive wellbeing conversations.
5. Boost Immunity
Prevent illness and maintain health by:5
- Reinforcing hand hygiene and clean shared spaces.
- Encouraging employees to stay home when unwell.
- Sharing resources on sleep, routines, and self-care.
6. Embed a Culture of Winter Wellbeing
Beyond individual habits, nurture a supportive environment with:
- Flexible work options during darker months.
- Comfortable, warm spaces for breaks.
- Short seasonal wellbeing campaigns focused on light, nutrition, activity, or mental health.
- Gathering employee feedback to tailor initiatives.
A thoughtful approach helps employees stay energised, healthy, and connected, even during winter’s darker days.
References
- NHS. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/conditions/seasonal-affective-disorder-sad
- Health and Safety Authority. Lighting at Work. Available at: https://www.hsa.ie
- Healthy Ireland. Healthy Eating Guidelines. Available at: https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/healthy-eating/
- HSE. Physical Activity Guidelines. Available at: https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/exercise/
- WHO. Mental Health in the Workplace. Available at:https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use
