Start the Year Strong
As the days remain short and temperatures low, it’s not unusual to feel a dip in energy and mood—commonly known as the winter blues. After the indulgence of the festive period, the New Year offers the perfect opportunity to reset, recharge, and refocus. One of the most effective ways to lift your spirits? Set realistic and motivating goals to improve your health and environment.
Learn more about the science behind standing to start your year strong
Why Do the Winter Blues Hit So Hard?
A lack of natural daylight can trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), disrupting sleep cycles, reducing serotonin levels, and affecting overall wellbeing. But with a proactive approach, small changes in your routine can make a big impact.
Here are two simple, proven ways to boost your mood and energy levels this winter—starting right at home and at work.
1. Create a Home Gym You’ll Actually Use
Regular movement is one of the most powerful mood-boosters. It triggers the release of endorphins, which help reduce anxiety and depression while boosting self-esteem. But dragging yourself to the gym on dark, cold mornings can be tough—so why not bring the gym to you?
You don’t need a full garage or spare room to get started—just a 1.8m² space is enough for a piece of cardio equipment, a set of weights, and a yoga mat.
Pro tip: Flooring is often overlooked when setting up a home gym. But using proper gym flooring not only protects your home but enhances comfort and reduces noise.
Sport Tile:
Ideal for multi-purpose home gyms, these interlocking rubber tiles offer grip, shock absorption, and noise reduction. Perfect for yoga, HIIT, or cardio sessions. View Product.
Weightroom Mat:
Planning to lift heavy? This 17 mm thick natural rubber mat absorbs impact from dumbbells and protects concrete, laminate, or hardwood floors. View Product.
A well-designed gym space encourages consistency—helping you avoid the dreaded fate of the rowing machine-turned-clothes rack.
2. Stand and Move More at Work
While regular exercise is essential, it’s also important to look at what you’re doing for the rest of your day—especially if your job keeps you glued to a desk.
Sitting for extended periods has been linked to increased risk of chronic health issues, prompting some experts to label it “the new smoking.” The NHS and Public Health England now recommend breaking up sitting time with at least 2–4 hours of standing per day.
Switching to a standing desk is a great place to start. Options range from budget-friendly desk converters to fully adjustable electric desks. Whichever you choose, setup is key.
Check your tech:
Make sure your monitor and keyboard are at a comfortable height, and that cables have enough slack to move with the desk.
Don’t forget your feet:
Standing all day on hard floors can cause fatigue, especially in your joints and lower back. That’s where anti-fatigue matting comes in.
Orthomat® Office is ergonomically designed to reduce strain, encourage micro-movements, and improve circulation while you stand. Start with one-hour intervals and gradually increase to build the habit.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
Whatever your goals are this winter—whether it’s getting fitter, boosting your mood, or simply feeling more energised throughout the day—the key is to make sustainable changes. Equip your space with the right tools and give yourself the best chance to stick with it.
With just a few adjustments to your home and work environment, you can take control of your wellbeing this winter—and beyond.
