As the days grow shorter and the mornings darker, many of us notice a familiar seasonal shift: slower starts, lower energy, and an urge to hunker down with something warm. Winter can subtly influence how we work and feel, whether you’re working from home, in a busy office, or at a coworking space like Origin Workspace.
To help navigate these changes, we spoke with Aimee, founder of Aim2Be, a Bristol-based wellbeing provider. She shared how she adapts her approach during the winter months to support energy, focus, and overall wellness. Below, we explore her seasonal wellbeing themes alongside simple practices you can try right away.
Aimee says:
“Winter creates a noticeable shift in how we feel, move and think, so I intentionally shift my wellbeing approach to meet people in the season they are living in. Reduced sunlight and colder temperatures can leave many feeling sluggish, low in mood or mentally foggy. Instead of fighting that seasonal shift, I help individuals move with their mood — the guiding philosophy behind everything I offer.”
Tip #1: Chase the sunlight.
Try opening blinds immediately on waking, stepping outside for 2–3 minutes as soon as the sun is up to get some natural light. If you’re working remotely or in a darker office, consider using a daylight lamp to support your circadian rhythm.
Aimee explains:
“During winter, many people feel stuck “in their heads”—overthinking, tense, or disconnected from their bodies. I adapt yoga sessions to help people drop out of the brain-fog cycle by blending movement and breathing techniques. Take 3 minutes now at your desk and try box breathing – inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale 4 counts, hold for 4 and repeat. It’s designed to bring you back into balance, giving you a clearer mind and calmer mood.”
Tip #2: Take an intentional pause between meetings.
Before opening your next Zoom call or heading into a meeting room, rest both feet on the floor, relax your shoulders, and take three slow breaths.
Aimee shares:
“Colder temperatures and reduced light naturally slow the body’s internal rhythms, which is why energy dips feel more intense at this time of year. Introduce shorter, low-impact movement practices that can give you that boost of momentum. I recommend Barre for a quick hit of energy to shake off the lethargy and being around a community with a can-do attitude. It’s fun, dynamic, and surprisingly empowering—ideal for business owners who need both movement and morale boosts.”
Tip #3: Turn routine catch-ups into walk-and-talks.
If it’s safe and practical, take your 1:1s outside. Or even take a lap around the office floor. Movement helps boost energy and creativity, and you’ll often solve problems faster.
Aimee notes:
“Burnout often peaks toward the end of the year and that is why factoring in micro-moments of rest into your day can make a huge impact. Explore eating lunch without multi-tasking, pausing to take a deeper breath before a meeting or a mindful brew before your morning begins and notice any subtle shifts in how you feel.”
Tip #4: Protect your breaks like meetings.
Add a 10-minute buffer to your calendar mid-morning or mid-afternoon to stretch, make a cup of tea, or step outside. At Origin, members often use our lounge area or roof terrace to detach from their screens and enjoy a moment of calm.
Aimee reflects:
“Winter asks for a different pace and a different kind of care, and by honouring that, you can create a wellbeing rhythm that supports both your life and your business in a sustainable way.”
Tip #5: Build a weekly winter wellness checklist.
Include one calming activity, one energising movement session, and one intentional rest moment. Whether you’re working from home or in a coworking space, small rituals done consistently have the biggest impact.
Winter wellness doesn’t have to be complicated. By honouring the season and creating simple routines that work for you, you can navigate the darker months with more focus, energy, and balance, whether you’re at home, in an office, or enjoying a shared workspace like Origin. We hope these insights inspire you to look after yourself more gently this season.
We’re proud to partner with Aim2Be through our Connect Card. Explore their winter classes, workplace wellbeing support, or one-to-one Reiki on their website, or connect with them on social media for valuable wellbeing tips throughout the year. New attendees can use the code “firstcla55” for a discount on their first visit.
Re:Treat
On Sunday 7th December, enjoy a slow, soft, snuggly morning in Fishponds, Bristol, being guided through 1.5 hours of restorative wellbeing practices. Afterwards, indulge in homemade sweet treats and catch up with friends over a cuppa — the perfect way to slow down, socialise, and celebrate the wins of the year.
Kalvinder Kaur
Marketing Manager
Kalvinder Kaur
Marketing Manager
Kalvinder Kaur
Marketing Manager
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