The good news? There are small, consistent habits that can help make this time of year more manageable. These practices don’t need to be complicated; they just need to be things you can stick to and that genuinely make you feel good.

Here’s what’s helped me:

1. Making the most of natural light

Natural light helps boost your mood and sleep, especially during winter when there are fewer hours of daylight. Even on my busiest days, I try to go for a short walk soon after waking up. Just 10 minutes outdoors with my morning coffee provides exposure to natural light, which is important for regulating our circadian rhythm.

If a morning walk isn’t possible, you can incorporate more natural light in other ways, like at lunchtime or by trying a new route on your commute. Even brief exposure to daylight can boost your mood at this time of year.

2. Creating a supportive environment

The winter months can leave people feeling drained, and the added strain of seasonal illnesses can make workloads feel even more intense. Within our Sleepwave team, we’ve worked hard to create a culture where everyone lends a hand and extra support where needed. Looking after each other and recognising when someone needs help can go a long way.

3. Upgrade your alarm clock

Waking up in the dark is tough, and traditional alarm clocks only make it harder. Instead of being jolted awake, switch to the Sleepwave app, which has a motion-sensing smart alarm that gently wakes you in lighter sleep.

It’s a small yet effective change that leaves you feeling energised and ready to take on the day ahead.

4. Listen to what your body is telling you

In the rush of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the signals your body sends. It’s common to feel more tired during winter, and there’s no shame in needing extra rest. If you’re consistently waking up tired, it might be worth adjusting your sleep routine or finding ways to wind down earlier in the evening.

While journaling isn’t for everyone, I’ve found it to be a great way to process my thoughts and release any worries that might disrupt my sleep. A few minutes spent jotting down your thoughts can be really beneficial.

5.  Keep moving

Exercise during winter can feel like a challenge, but even small amounts of movement can improve your mood and sleep. I try to start my day with some form of activity – whether it’s a morning walk or a quick stretch while waiting for my coffee to brew. If mornings are too rushed, a gentle 10-minute walk before bed can do wonders. It’s calming without being overly stimulating and helps with digestion after dinner.

And lastly, let’s normalise how we’re feeling

Finally, let’s acknowledge that winter can be pretty tough. Feeling more tired doesn’t mean you’re failing – it’s part of the natural ebb and flow of life. By integrating habits like morning light exposure, improved wake-up routines, gentle walks, and more sleep, you can ease the burden of winter. Pair these habits with support from others and you might even find yourself loving this time of year.

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