Why winter is not the time for New Year’s Resolutions.

As January arrives, many people feel pressure to reset, improve, and make big changes. New Year resolutions and the “New Year, new me” mindset are often presented as the only way to start the year well. Yet nature tells a very different story. One that offers a different and gentler approach, one that aligns with nature, supports your nervous system, and prioritises sustainable mental wellbeing, especially during winter.

The calendar says ‘New Year’ but nature says winter

As we step into 2026, the calendar may signal a fresh start, but nature is still very much in winter. The winter solstice was less than two weeks ago. The mornings remain dark, the air is colder, and many people are still operating in survival mode. From both a seasonal and nervous system perspective, this is not a time designed for big energetic leaps.

Winter is a season of rest and regulation

In nature, winter is a season of rest, reflection, and regulation. Energy is conserved rather than expanded. Our bodies and minds naturally slow down, supporting recovery and restoration. When we ignore this seasonal rhythm and push ourselves into constant productivity, stress levels rise and emotional resilience can decline.

Why New Year Resolutions often do not last

Many New Year resolutions fail not because of a lack of motivation or discipline, but because they are out of sync with the season. Setting goals that focus on what you do not want, or placing pressure on immediate change, often leads to overwhelm, self criticism, and burnout within weeks.

January is a time for being rather than rushing

January is a powerful time for being rather than rushing into doing. It offers space to look back on the year that has passed, to acknowledge lessons learned, challenges faced, and moments of joy that may have gone unnoticed. From this grounded place, you can gently reflect on who you want to be and what you really want in the year ahead and why that truly matters to you.

A seasonal approach to sustainable wellbeing

Instead of setting generic resolutions, aligning with the seasons supports long term wellbeing and meaningful change.

• Prioritising rest, reflection, and gentle planning during winter

• Creating steady foundations now for more energy and action in spring

• Taking one small, manageable step at a time

This approach supports nervous system regulation and reduces the pressure to perform or rush.

You do NOT have to do everything in January

Real change is for life, not just for January.

There are 12 months/ 52 weeks/ 365 days in a year. Some people thrive on January momentum and that is valid. For others, winter hustle brings emotional fatigue and low mood. Starting the year calmly and restfully is not falling behind. It is often the most supportive choice.

Working with the seasons supports mental health

When you work with the seasons rather than against them, change becomes kinder, steadier, and far more sustainable. Winter is not holding you back. It is preparing you for what comes next by strengthening emotional resilience, clarity, and inner stability.

Feeling called to a calmer start?

If this approach to wellbeing resonates, you are not alone. Many people find that slowing down, regulating their nervous system, and working with the seasons helps reduce anxiety, overwhelm, and emotional fatigue.

If you would like gentle support as you begin the year, you are very welcome to book a relaxed connect and explore call. This is a no pressure conversation where we can talk about what a calm, supportive start to the year looks like for you.

👉 Book your connect and explore call here

Supporting mental wellbeing across the UK through solution focused hypnotherapy and seasonal approaches to care.