Book Your Christmas Wellbeing Experience with Pamper Puff
The run-up to Christmas can be one of the busiest times of the year. Deadlines, social events and end-of-year pressures all gather pace, and it’s easy for wellbeing to slip to the bottom of the list. This year, Pamper Puff invites you to celebrate the season differently — with experiences that bring calm, connection and creativity to the workplace.
Our Christmas wellbeing bookings are now open, with a range of services designed to make your festive events as restorative as they are memorable.
The run-up to Christmas can be one of the busiest times of the year. Deadlines, social events and end-of-year pressures all gather pace, and it’s easy for wellbeing to slip to the bottom of the list. This year, Pamper Puff invites you to celebrate the season differently, with experiences that bring calm, connection and creativity to the workplace.
Our Christmas wellbeing bookings are now open, with a range of services designed to make your festive events as restorative as they are memorable.
Workplace Massage and Festive Nail Bars
Bring the spa to your office with our signature pop-up wellbeing stations. Our professional therapists set up comfortable massage chairs in any space, offering restorative seated treatments that ease tension and help staff unwind. Treatments can be tailored to suit busy schedules: from 10-minute energising massages during the working day to longer sessions as part of an office party or winter wellbeing event.
Our festive nail bars add a touch of glamour to team celebrations. Choose from winter-inspired shades and professional gel finishes for a chic, long-lasting manicure. Each set-up includes a curated edit of seasonal colours, from deep navy and tortoiseshell tones to classic red and soft gold, creating an elegant addition to any workplace celebration.
Wine and Cheese Tastings
We partner with Holly Chaves, founder of Wine + Rind, to deliver corporate wine and cheese tasting events. These tastings are ideal for relaxed gatherings: organic, artisanal wines paired with exceptional cheeses, all presented in a way that invites conversation and indulgence, without leaving the office.
Wreath-Making Workshops with Frances Costelloe
We’re delighted to partner again with artist Frances Costelloe for a limited series of wreath-making workshops this December. Guided by Frances, guests will create their own seasonal wreaths using natural materials, fresh foliage and a palette of subtle, timeless colours.
These sessions offer more than just a creative outlet — they provide a space for mindfulness and collaboration, ideal for teams looking to end the year on a thoughtful, uplifting note. Each workshop includes all materials, set-up, and clean-down, so every detail is taken care of.
Why Book Corporate Christmas Wellbeing Experiences
Investing in workplace wellbeing over the festive period can have a lasting impact. It helps staff decompress after a demanding year, builds team morale, and reinforces a culture of care and appreciation. Our experiences are fully mobile, easy to organise, and adaptable for both large and small companies.
We work with teams across London and beyond, bringing calm and connection into the busiest time of year.
Book Early to Secure Your Date
December bookings fill quickly. To arrange a Christmas wellbeing experience, contact hello@pamperpuff.com. Our team will help design a bespoke package that fits your space, schedule and budget — whether that’s a single afternoon of massages or a full day of festive workshops and treatments.
Celebrate the season with presence, not pressure. This year, let wellbeing lead the way.
Wellbeing That Works: What the 2025 CIPD Report Means for Modern Workplaces
The new CIPD Health and Wellbeing at Work 2025 report has arrived, and it is essential reading for anyone shaping people culture or workplace strategy. Drawing on responses from more than 900 HR professionals across the UK, it highlights a reality we see every day: workplace wellbeing is not a luxury, it is a business essential.
At Pamper Puff, we have taken a close look at the findings and distilled what they mean for how companies can care for their people through action, not just intention.
The new CIPD Health and Wellbeing at Work 2025 report has arrived, and it is essential reading for anyone shaping people culture or workplace strategy. Drawing on responses from more than 900 HR professionals across the UK, it highlights a reality we see every day: workplace wellbeing is not a luxury, it is a business essential.
At Pamper Puff, we have taken a close look at the findings and distilled what they mean for how companies can care for their people through action, not just intention.
1. Wellbeing is Business-Critical
The report shows what many of us already sense:
87% of organisations observed employees working while unwell.
47% reported rising mental health absences.
Only half of senior leaders are fully engaged with workplace wellbeing.
The message is clear. Wellness cannot live in an email footer or a token fruit bowl. It must be embedded into culture, modelled by leadership and felt by every employee.
At Pamper Puff, we see engagement rise when companies make care visible through small, consistent actions such as in-office massage, nail bars or simple team reset sessions. These moments are not surface-level perks, they are signals of value and trust.
2. Mental Health: Progress with Gaps to Close
Encouragingly, 69% of organisations now provide mental health training for managers. Yet fewer than half of those managers feel confident having meaningful, supportive conversations.
This is the missing link. Managers often care deeply about their teams but lack the language, structure and confidence to help effectively. Our Coaching and Wellness Sessions help close that gap by giving leaders and teams practical tools for calm communication and emotional resilience.
3. Menopause and Long-Term Health Need Real Support
Only 30% of organisations have a menopause policy, and just 24% offer tailored support for chronic conditions or long-term health issues.
Inclusive wellbeing means seeing the whole person. Many employees, especially women and carers, are still managing in silence. Employers can make a real difference by providing time, space and understanding, alongside visible gestures of care such as massage for tension relief or guided rest breaks during busy days.
Explore our Workplace Wellness Packages to see how small actions can make a big difference.
4. Flexibility Meets Fatigue
Hybrid work has become the new normal, but it also brings new pressures. Digital overload, blurred boundaries and a culture of being constantly “on” are creating quiet burnout across industries.
True flexibility means freedom with structure. Introducing regular wellbeing time, digital switch-off windows or shorter recharge sessions helps teams find balance. Simple acts of care — like 15-minute desk massages or midweek wellbeing breaks — remind people that rest is part of the work, not separate from it.
5. Turning Insights into Action
The report makes one thing clear: most companies want to care, but they do not always know where to start.
To build meaningful wellbeing at work:
Prevent burnout early. Notice signs before they escalate.
Blend physical and mental wellbeing. Massage, movement and mindfulness work best together.
Support working parents and carers. Offer real breaks, not just flexible hours.
Measure what matters. Collect feedback and track engagement over time.
Our Takeaway for 2025
Wellbeing is not an HR initiative. It is how a company demonstrates care and builds belonging. The workplaces that thrive in 2026 will be those that treat wellbeing as culture, not compliance.
At Pamper Puff, we believe in bringing care into everyday spaces — from boardrooms to breakrooms — because when people feel better, they work better, live better and connect better.
Women Leading in Beauty: Why We Back The Gel Bottle
At Pamper Puff we choose our partnerships carefully. We believe beauty should feel intentional, rooted in quality, integrity, and stories worth telling. That is why The Gel Bottle is more than just a favourite polish brand to us. It is a brand led by a woman whose journey reflects everything we stand for.
At Pamper Puff we choose our partnerships carefully. We believe beauty should feel intentional, rooted in quality, integrity, and stories worth telling. That is why The Gel Bottle is more than just a favourite polish brand to us. It is a brand led by a woman whose journey reflects everything we stand for.
About Us: Our Mission and Belief
Pamper Puff was founded on a simple idea: wellness and beauty should happen in the real, everyday spaces where people spend their time, such as offices, events and studios, not only in luxury spas. We exist to bring moments of care, creativity and confidence into those environments. Our mission is to treat every client with respect, to use products that perform and align with our values, and to build relationships that last.
We believe in products that work hard, but also mean something. When our team paints nails, we want those nails to last. When our clients see their manicure days later, we want them to think, “That was a good decision.” But we also want our choices to reflect values: products from ethical sources, businesses built with integrity, and stories of leadership that resonate with our own.
Daisy’s Early Roots and Creative Spark
Daisy Kalnina’s story begins well before The Gel Bottle existed. As early as age seven she was already selling at her local market. When she was fourteen she started helping manage her mother’s salon after school. Later she trained formally as a nail technician. She bought her own salon in Brighton, where she worked daily with clients, learned what they wanted and saw where existing products fell short. She realised that many polishes did not last, many colours lacked vibrancy, and the formulas did not match the performance her clients deserved. With her training, creative eye and technical ambition, she began developing her own gel formulas.
What began in a single salon has grown into an international business. Today Daisy runs The Gel Bottle Inc, Peaccí and The Gel Bottle Academy, reaching nail professionals all over the world.
As she has said in interviews:
“My hope has always been to run a successful business that would also be an extension of my creative ambitions.”
“There is no one route to success … staying agile has proven to be the best point of learning for me over the years.”
Challenges, Vision and Growth
Daisy’s path was not without obstacles. She has spoken about how challenges forced her to adapt. Business shifts, scaling production and market pressures required flexibility. Staying agile was key. She also credits a positive mindset, visualisation techniques and persistence for helping her push through tough times.
Over time, The Gel Bottle expanded beyond the UK. It now ships globally and Daisy has grown a team of more than 100 people, from core staff to warehouse teams and educators. She has also used her platform to support nail technicians in challenging times. For example, during the pandemic she launched a Brand Rep scheme that helped technicians whose work was affected, raising funds and creating alternative income streams.
Her achievements include industry awards, the launch of sister brands and academies, and recognition in major beauty publications. Her success speaks not only to polish sales, but to her wider influence in the beauty world.
Why Her Story Resonates With Us
When we at Pamper Puff look at Daisy’s journey, we see parallels to our own. Starting small, recognising gaps in the market, creating something new, and growing while holding onto core values is what drives us. Daisy turned her frustration with existing products into a brand. We turned the need for wellness in workplaces and events into a company.
We admire her courage in experimentation, her commitment to growth, and her willingness to support others. These are the kinds of leaders we want to stand beside, ones who lift others as they rise.
The Gel Bottle: Products That Deliver
The Gel Bottle’s products must perform, and they do. Their polishes are long-lasting, with strong adhesion and vibrant colour. They are vegan and cruelty-free, which matters to many of our clients. Because their collections evolve, we can offer fresh, current choices rather than the same old palette. For our team it means we can trust consistency. For clients it means a manicure that still looks good days later.
When a client looks down at their nails on day five or seven and sees no chips, no dullness, that is a mark of quality. And that quality must match the ethical and business story behind it.
Bringing It Together: Why We Back The Gel Bottle
We back The Gel Bottle because it aligns with us in mission, in performance, and in values. Daisy Kalnina has built a brand from real insight, creative drive and persistence. She has expanded globally while nurturing a community and supporting others. Her story is not just inspirational, it is proof that women-led businesses can drive innovation, shift markets and lead with heart.
At Pamper Puff our mission is to create moments that uplift, restore and inspire. Working with The Gel Bottle helps us do that.
Introducing Desk Retreat: Our New Chapter in Corporate Wellness
We started Pamper Puff because we loved bringing a little calm and care to weddings and events. Over time we realised the workplace needed that same spark of wellness too. That is how Desk Retreat was born. From manicures to yoga, art therapy and wellbeing talks, we now work with amazing teams at Pleo, Google, British Airways, The Guardian, Eurostar and more. What keeps us going is seeing the difference when we return to the same places again and again, building real connections and helping people feel good at work.
When we (Rosie and Scarlett) launched Pamper Puff, our vision was simple: to bring a touch of wellness to life’s most special moments. Weddings, birthdays, parties. We loved creating spaces where people could slow down, connect, and feel cared for. That part of our story continues today, and Pamper Puff will always be where we bring joy and calm to events.
But over time something else became clear. As much as people loved wellness at their celebrations, the workplace needed it just as much. Offices were fast-paced, high-pressure, and rarely designed with wellbeing in mind. We saw the difference that a massage, a manicure, or even a mindful pause could make in someone’s day, and we realised that wellness in the workplace was not a luxury, it was essential.
Since then we have had the privilege of working with brilliant teams at Pleo, Google, British Airways, Smart, The Guardian, Eurostar and many more. What we have loved most is returning to the same workplaces again and again, building relationships and watching how regular wellness support transforms culture over time.
What began with nails and massage has now grown into something much broader. Today we also offer wellbeing talks, yoga, art therapy, meditation, creative workshops and more. We are always developing ourselves and our services because we know wellness evolves alongside the people and businesses it supports.
That is why our corporate arm now has its own name: Desk Retreat. It reflects exactly what we aim to bring. A pause, a reset, and a moment of calm in the middle of a busy day. A retreat without leaving your desk.
World Menopause Day: Why Workplaces Need to Pay Attention
Every year on 18 October, World Menopause Day shines a light on an experience that half the population will go through but is still too often overlooked in the workplace.
Menopause isn’t just about hot flushes. It can bring a wide range of symptoms: disrupted sleep, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, fatigue, and more. For many women and people who menstruate, this stage of life overlaps with the peak of their careers. Yet workplace conversations and support systems are frequently absent.
Every year on 18 October, World Menopause Day shines a light on an experience that half the population will go through but is still too often overlooked in the workplace.
Menopause isn’t just about hot flushes. It can bring a wide range of symptoms: disrupted sleep, difficulty concentrating, anxiety, fatigue, and more. For many women and people who menstruate, this stage of life overlaps with the peak of their careers. Yet workplace conversations and support systems are frequently absent.
As Dr Louise Newson, GP and founder of the balance app, explains in her report Menopause and the Workplace: “Symptoms such as hot flushes, fatigue, mood changes and brain fog … are all too often under-recognised, undervalued and not taken seriously.”
Why it matters for employers
Ignoring menopause doesn’t just affect individuals — it impacts teams and organisations:
Retention: Without the right support, talented employees may feel forced to step back or leave.
Productivity: Symptoms like poor sleep or brain fog can reduce focus and performance if left unaddressed.
Culture: A supportive approach signals inclusivity and care, which builds stronger trust and engagement across the board.
Research from the Fawcett Society found that one in ten women have left a job because of menopause symptoms, while many more reduce hours or pass up promotions. That’s a huge talent drain for businesses and a challenge for any company focused on growth.
What support can look like
Open conversation: Training managers and HR teams to talk about menopause without stigma.
Practical adjustments: Flexible hours, temperature control, or quiet spaces can make a meaningful difference.
Wellness at work: Regular wellness activations — from stress-relieving chair massages to restorative nail care — help staff feel valued and supported, while offering a practical outlet for stress and fatigue.
As Davina McCall has said: “There's still a taboo in talking about menopause and perimenopause in the workplace and this has to change. We need to make it normal …”
The bigger picture
World Menopause Day is a reminder that wellbeing at work isn’t one-size-fits-all. Menopause is a shared human reality, not a private struggle. By taking it seriously, employers create an environment where everyone can thrive, at every stage of life.
At Pamper Puff, we partner with organisations to make wellness visible and accessible, whether through on-site treatments, wellbeing days, or ongoing programmes that address real needs. From a single chair massage session to a full wellness calendar, we help companies move beyond tick-box gestures towards meaningful support.
✨ Because investing in care isn’t just good for people — it’s good for business.
Get Ready for October 10th: World Mental Health Day at Work
World Mental Health Day is approaching on 10 October. It is a moment to pause, reflect and ask an important question: how is your workplace supporting mental wellbeing?
The workplace can be both a source of stress and a place of support. With the right wellness initiatives, businesses can create environments where employees feel valued, energised and cared for. That is not only good for people, it is also good for productivity, retention and culture.
World Mental Health Day is approaching on 10 October. It is a moment to pause, reflect and ask an important question: how is your workplace supporting mental wellbeing?
The workplace can be both a source of stress and a place of support. With the right wellness initiatives, businesses can create environments where employees feel valued, energised and cared for. That is not only good for people, it is also good for productivity, retention and culture.
Why mental health at work cannot be ignored
1 in 6 workers experience a mental health problem at any given time.
Stress, burnout and anxiety are leading causes of long-term sickness absence.
Businesses that invest in wellbeing see measurable returns: fewer absences, greater engagement, and improved retention.
Where employers can make a difference
Break the stigma: Talking openly about mental health helps create cultures of care.
Small gestures, big impact: From nail bars to chair massages, wellness activations can transform a stressful week into a more balanced one.
Proactive not reactive: Support should not wait until crisis point. Building in wellness touchpoints throughout the year prevents burnout.
How Pamper Puff helps
We bring wellness directly into the workplace with services designed to give employees space to breathe, reset and recharge. That could be:
On-site manicures that create moments of calm and connection
Chair massages that release tension and boost focus
Mindful breaks with yoga, meditation or art therapy
Tailored wellness days that align with company culture and employee needs
A reminder for leaders
World Mental Health Day is not about ticking a box. It is a chance to reflect on how your workplace supports the people who keep it running. Wellness is not a perk, it is a pillar of sustainable success.
This 10 October, let us move from awareness to action. Pamper Puff can help you build a culture of care that lasts all year.
From Out-of-Office to Overdrive: Why September is the Month for Workplace Wellness
September arrives with a shift in pace. After a quieter August, inboxes fill, meetings multiply, and the back-to-school rush begins. For many employees, especially working parents, this is one of the most stressful points of the year. The transition from out-of-office to overdrive is real, and without proper support it can lead to burnout.
September arrives with a shift in pace. After a quieter August, inboxes fill, meetings multiply, and the back-to-school rush begins. For many employees, especially working parents, this is one of the most stressful points of the year. The transition from out-of-office to overdrive is real, and without proper support it can lead to burnout.
That is why September is the month for workplace wellness.
Why September Feels Overwhelming
The return to routines: Staff juggle school runs, commutes and heavier workloads all at once.
The productivity push: With year-end targets looming, September often sets the tone for the final quarter.
The wellbeing dip: Post-summer blues, disrupted sleep and rising stress can all impact mental health and job satisfaction.
Without the right wellness support, this cocktail of pressures can reduce focus, motivation and retention.
The Business Case for Wellness in September
Corporate wellness is not a luxury, it is a necessity. Research shows that companies who invest in employee wellbeing see higher productivity, lower turnover and stronger engagement. By offering wellness initiatives in September, you show staff that their health is valued at precisely the moment they need it most.
Wellness is not just about perks. It is about:
Reducing absenteeism and stress-related sick days
Improving employee morale and retention
Supporting parents and carers through the back-to-school transition
Boosting energy and focus during a busy business season
How Pamper Puff Supports Teams
At Pamper Puff, we bring wellness directly into the workplace, making self-care simple, accessible and impactful. Our on-site corporate wellness services are designed to fit into the busiest schedules and deliver instant benefits:
Manicures: A polished boost helping employees feel confident and cared for.
Chair massages: Portable stress relief that eases tension, improves posture and combats desk fatigue.
Yoga and mindfulness sessions: Tools to manage anxiety, improve focus and build resilience.
Pop-up wellness bars: Combine nails, massage and mindfulness into an in-office retreat experience.
Whether it is a one-off wellbeing day or a regular programme, we help employers show they care in a tangible way.
September is the Perfect Time to Invest
As teams switch from holiday mode to high performance, September is the ideal time to introduce or refresh your workplace wellness offering. By investing now, you can help employees manage stress, maintain balance and stay motivated through the busiest months of the year.
Let us bring balance back
Do not let the September surge overwhelm your staff. Book a Pamper Puff wellness session and turn the back-to-work rush into an opportunity for renewal. When your team feels supported, your business thrives.
The Missing Ingredient in Corporate Wellness? Manicures
When most companies think about corporate wellness, the same ideas come up again and again: yoga, gym memberships, maybe a lunchtime talk about nutrition. All valuable, but often missing one simple, high-impact service: manicures.
When most companies think about corporate wellness, the same ideas come up again and again: yoga, gym memberships, maybe a lunchtime talk about nutrition. All valuable, but often missing one simple, high-impact service: manicures.
At Pamper Puff, we have seen first-hand how something as small as an in-office nail bar can have a big impact on morale, connection, and wellbeing. Here’s why.
It’s a wellness service everyone can enjoy
Wellness can be divisive. Some people thrive in a spin class, others would rather avoid anything that feels like exercise in their workday. A professional manicure is different. It is low-pressure, inclusive, and appeals across age groups, genders, and job roles. Even staff who would not usually take part in wellness activities will often book a manicure.
It creates space for conversation
A nail bar is not just about polish. It is about creating an inviting corner in the office where people naturally slow down, chat, and connect. Colleagues who might never speak in a meeting will find themselves swapping stories over the manicure table. These micro-moments build culture in a way formal team-building often cannot.
It delivers an instant mood boost
Wellness initiatives often focus on long-term benefits such as improved fitness, better posture, and reduced stress over months. Those matter, but sometimes the most valuable thing is a quick win. A fresh manicure gives an immediate lift in confidence and mood. That feel-good factor does not just end when the polish dries. It carries into meetings, client calls, and interactions for the rest of the day.
It’s visible wellness
A company can offer a mindfulness app or a discounted gym membership, but those are not tangible in the workplace day-to-day. A nail bar is different. It transforms part of your office into a space of care. Staff see it, feel it, and remember it as a visible, physical sign that leadership is investing in their wellbeing.
It fits into the workday
We bring the entire set-up, from technicians to polish displays, and run short appointments so staff can fit them in between meetings or on a lunch break. No travel and no long absences from the desk, just 20 minutes of personal care without derailing productivity.
Pamper Puff has delivered corporate nail bars for companies including British Airways, Smart Pension, and Pleo. Our pop-ups are fully managed, mess-free, and designed to create moments of calm in the middle of busy days. Pair them with chair massage, yoga, or meditation, and you have a wellness day that is not just another HR tick-box, but something your team will talk about long after.
Book your in-office nail bar today because sometimes, the smallest detail is what makes your wellness programme truly work.
The August Slump Is Real: A Quick HR Guide to Rebooting Staff Motivation Before September
August can feel like a productivity no-man’s land. With half the team away, projects paused, and the heat dialled up, the pace often slows: sometimes to a halt. But instead of writing off the month, HR teams can use it as an opportunity: a low-pressure moment to reset, re-energise, and lay the groundwork for a strong final quarter.
August can feel like a productivity no-man’s land. With half the team away, projects paused, and the heat dialled up, the pace often slows, sometimes to a halt. But instead of writing off the month, HR teams can use it as an opportunity: a low-pressure moment to reset, re-energise, and lay the groundwork for a strong final quarter.
The Data Behind the Dip
The so-called “summer slump” isn’t just anecdotal. According to research cited by Personnel Today, up to 20% of employees report a dip in motivation during summer, especially in August. Factors include holiday scheduling, reduced decision-making bandwidth, heat-induced fatigue, and long wait times on projects.
A recent piece from IG-HR confirms that performance and morale can waver when structure disappears and colleagues are in and out of office, creating a knock-on effect across teams.
So, how can HR leaders respond effectively and turn August into a month of quiet momentum?
1. Acknowledge the Slump
Start by naming it. Productivity doesn't have to be linear. Open up a conversation about what support would actually help right now, whether it’s flexibility, focus time, or simply fewer meetings. This honest framing helps prevent silent disengagement.
2. Use Wellness to Re-Energise
IG-HR notes that well-being initiatives, when properly timed, can stabilise team morale. But in August, less is more. Consider drop-in chair massages, lunchtime breathwork or mindfulness, flexible outdoor working, or walking meetings. A cold drinks bar or afternoon mocktail trolley can also offer both a physical and mental reset without crowding the calendar.
Allbranded suggests that perks like early finishes or ice cream vouchers don’t just create positive sentiment. They actively boost retention.
3. Co-Design a “September Sprint Plan”
Rather than letting September creep up unannounced, invite your team to help shape it. A short sprint planning session in mid-August can realign priorities, clarify workload, and set short-term goals. This kind of intentional re-entry planning builds buy-in, especially when staff return from leave.
4. Rethink the Calendar
With low team attendance and patchy energy, calendar design matters. Swap full-team strategy calls for brief, focused syncs or walking one-to-ones. Early-morning creative blocks or no-meeting afternoons can help those still in the office stay sharp without burnout.
Practice Business recommends empowering junior staff to take the lead during this period and facilitating proper planning for handovers and returns.
5. Don’t Underestimate the Small Stuff
Work culture thrives on consistent signals, not just big gestures. In its list of August employee engagement ideas, Esteeme highlights the power of themed events, wellness challenges, and drop-in rituals like gratitude walls or coffee roulette. These small-scale interactions build social cohesion and keep energy flowing, even when teams are stretched thin.
Closing Thoughts
The August slump isn’t a failure of motivation. It’s a seasonal reality. But with the right support, this quieter stretch can be used to restore focus, improve well-being, and prepare for a purposeful September.
If you’re looking to reboot morale with bespoke wellness activations, strategic coaching, or just a few well-timed perks, now is the time to act. Get in touch to design an August reset for your team that makes space to breathe and builds momentum where it matters.
International Self-Care Day: Why Employers Need to Pay Attention
July 24th is International Self-Care Day. It’s a moment in the calendar, but also a reminder of something deeper: looking after ourselves is not an extra, it is the foundation that allows everything else to work.
July 24th is International Self-Care Day. It’s a moment in the calendar, but also a reminder of something deeper: looking after ourselves is not an extra, it is the foundation that allows everything else to work.
At Pamper Puff, we think of self-care not as a treat but as a practice. Not as something you earn, but something you need. It is not about being indulgent. It is about being honest. Because when you are running on empty, nothing else runs well either.
What Self-Care Actually Looks Like
It might be:
Saying no to something you do not have capacity for.
Booking a massage when your body tells you to, not when it fits your diary.
Logging off on time.
Taking your full lunch break, not replying to emails while eating over your keyboard.
For some people, it is ten minutes of silence. For others, it is moving their body. Often, it is just being allowed to pause and not perform for a moment.
The Workplace Has a Role to Play
If you are an employer, International Self-Care Day is more than a feel-good date. It is a reminder that your people are human. They are carrying stress, responsibilities, and pressure that do not disappear when they start work. You cannot solve it all, but you can be part of the solution.
Providing wellness support is not about ticking boxes. It is about creating the kind of environment where people can function. When you support self-care, you support performance too.
What We Do
Pamper Puff brings care directly into the workplace. From on-site massage and manicures to meditation and bespoke wellbeing programmes, we create calm in the middle of the working day.
It is real support, delivered by professionals, designed around your team’s needs.
Because self-care should not be a luxury. It should be part of the culture.
So this International Self-Care Day, ask yourself: what does it really mean to look after people?
Start small. Make it real. Let us help.
School Holidays: Supporting Working Parents Through the Juggle
As the school holidays approach, many working parents brace themselves for the dual challenge ahead. Longer days, childcare gaps, rising costs and the mental load of parenting don’t disappear just because work emails keep coming in. In fact, for many, this time of year can feel like fighting on two fronts. They are trying to maintain focus and performance at work, while also navigating the unpredictable world of school-free children at home.
It is a time when burnout can creep in, unnoticed but relentless.
As the school holidays approach, many working parents brace themselves for the dual challenge ahead. Longer days, childcare gaps, rising costs and the mental load of parenting don’t disappear just because work emails keep coming in. In fact, for many, this time of year can feel like fighting on two fronts. They are trying to maintain focus and performance at work, while also navigating the unpredictable world of school-free children at home.
It is a time when burnout can creep in, unnoticed but relentless.
The Reality for Working Parents
Whether it is scrambling for last-minute childcare, managing endless snack requests during Zoom calls or simply feeling stretched too thin, the pressure of the summer break is real.
For some parents, work can even become an unexpected oasis. It is a place where they can focus, breathe and reclaim a sense of themselves outside of parenting. But the truth is, when you are already running on empty, that relief only goes so far.
How Employers Can Make a Difference
This is where thoughtful employers can really make an impact. It does not need to be a grand gesture. Often, it is the practical and proactive support that makes the biggest difference. Here’s how:
💡 Flexible Working Hours
Allow parents to shift their workday around family commitments. Early starts, compressed hours or longer lunch breaks can offer breathing room without compromising productivity.
💡 Wellness Breaks
Offer wellness-focused activities during work hours. Chair massages, breathwork sessions or guided meditation are not just perks. They are lifelines for stressed employees.
💡 Onsite or Virtual Wellness Events
Bring calming experiences to the workplace, either in-person or online. Mini treatments like manicures, yoga sessions or mindfulness workshops help employees reset and return to work feeling refreshed.
💡 Create a Culture of Compassion
Encourage managers to check in with team members. It is not just about deadlines, but also about how they are coping. Open conversations can go a long way in reducing pressure.
💡 Resource Sharing
Provide information on local holiday camps, childcare options or parenting support networks. Sometimes, knowing where to turn is half the battle.
A Kinder Approach to Productivity
The truth is, when parents feel supported, everyone benefits. Companies gain employees who are more focused, engaged and loyal. Parents gain space to breathe, both at work and at home.
At Pamper Puff, we know that wellness is not just a seasonal perk. It is an essential tool for navigating the ebb and flow of life. School holidays are no exception.
Ready to support your team? Let’s create a wellness programme that works for everyone.
DM us to book your summer sessions today.
Pride Doesn’t End in June
As Pride Month comes to a close, the flags may come down – but people’s lives carry on. At work. In meetings. On commutes. In inboxes. In healthcare systems. In spaces that don’t always feel safe or fair.
Pride is more than a celebration. It’s a reminder that many of your colleagues are navigating a world that can still be dismissive, discriminatory, or outright dangerous. And they’re doing it while showing up, meeting deadlines, contributing, leading.
Why supporting LGBTQ+ employees is more than a gesture
As Pride Month comes to a close, the flags may come down – but people’s lives carry on. At work. In meetings. On commutes. In inboxes. In healthcare systems. In spaces that don’t always feel safe or fair.
Pride is more than a celebration. It’s a reminder that many of your colleagues are navigating a world that can still be dismissive, discriminatory, or outright dangerous. And they’re doing it while showing up, meeting deadlines, contributing, leading.
What Does It Really Mean to Support LGBTQ+ Staff?
It means recognising that personal and professional lives don’t exist in separate boxes. That someone’s productivity might dip because they’re going through gender-affirming care, dealing with family rejection, or simply exhausted from carrying invisible stress.
Support looks like:
Creating policies that reflect real lives, not just legal tick-boxes
Making space for emotion, identity, and change
Understanding that care isn’t a tokenised wellness session – it’s structural
Not waiting for Pride Month to talk about inclusion
A Workplace Can Be a Healing Place
Work can be a source of anxiety – or it can be a place where people feel seen. The difference is culture. Employers who show up consistently – not performatively – create a space where people can breathe. Be open. Be themselves. That’s what inclusion actually looks like.
Our Role in This
At Pamper Puff, we help companies nurture all their people – not just through massage, meditation, or coaching, but by helping teams understand what real wellbeing means in a complex world. One where care needs context. And where pride doesn’t end in June.
July is Talk to Us Month: Making Space for Mental Health at Work
At Pamper Puff, we believe that wellness starts with listening. July marks Talk to Us Month, an initiative originally launched by Samaritans to encourage open conversations about mental health. For businesses, it’s a vital reminder that wellbeing isn’t just about perks—it’s about creating the kind of culture where people feel seen, heard, and supported.
At Pamper Puff, we believe that wellness starts with listening. July marks Talk to Us Month, an initiative originally launched by Samaritans to encourage open conversations about mental health. For businesses, it’s a vital reminder that wellbeing isn’t just about perks, it’s about creating the kind of culture where people feel seen, heard, and supported.
Why Talking Matters
Too many workplaces still rely on crisis response over culture change. But mental health isn’t just about emergency support: it’s about everyday connection. A missed opportunity to check in with a colleague, a stressor brushed off, or a silent struggle left unseen: these are the quiet cracks where burnout and disengagement begin.
When employees feel safe to talk, the results ripple: better performance, stronger teams, and healthier retention.
Coaching: A Structured Space to Be Heard
One of the most effective tools we offer companies is 1:1 or small group coaching. Coaching isn’t therapy, it’s a structured, supportive space where employees can reflect, problem-solve, and build resilience. With a professional coach, people are given time to pause, think, and develop the tools to navigate both personal and professional challenges.
Coaching helps with:
Managing stress and boundaries
Handling difficult conversations
Goal setting and values alignment
Building confidence and emotional intelligence
It’s not just about “fixing problems”—it’s about cultivating mental strength and clarity.
Meditation: Silence That Speaks Volumes
Meditation sessions, whether a short guided breathwork break or a 45-minute deep dive—give teams something rare: a quiet moment. In a high-speed work environment, it can feel radical to just stop. But research shows that regular meditation lowers stress, improves focus, and increases emotional regulation—making it one of the most powerful tools for mental wellness.
We’ve found that hosting group meditation:
Lowers team-wide stress levels
Creates a shared language around wellbeing
Encourages mindful conversation and mutual support
You don’t need a nap room or a mountain retreat. You need 20 minutes and a culture that values rest.
This July, Make Space to Talk
Whether it’s a coaching taster session, a drop-in meditation class, or a full mental health workshop, Pamper Puff can help you make Talk to Us Month count.
Let’s replace burnout with balance, isolation with insight, and silence with connection.
Ready to open the conversation?
We’re here to help you start. Get in touch to explore our wellness offerings.
The Wedding Glow-Up (Without the Burnout)
From beauty services that soothe the nervous system to treatments that bring emotional balance, our wedding offerings are designed to create moments of calm, presence and care — no matter what the day brings.
Most couples plan for flowers and playlists. Fewer plan for how they want to feel on their wedding day.
At Pamper Puff, we built our name in the corporate world, supporting teams through the pressures of modern work life. But we’ve always known that weddings — joyful as they are — carry their own kind of pressure. We’ve been quietly supporting them since day one.
From beauty services that soothe the nervous system to treatments that bring emotional balance, our wedding offerings are designed to create moments of calm, presence and care — no matter what the day brings.
As one recent client shared:
"Due to a close family grievance, we had to change the day's plans very quickly… Pamper Puff accommodated everything with grace and calm. Sue was amazing – she even got my 90-year-old grandma to do yoga."
Manicures and Pedicures with Purpose
Our mobile nail bars are designed not only to deliver beautiful results, but to offer a gentle, grounding experience.
High-quality, long-wearing polish options
We use carefully selected polishes designed for durability and a refined finish, ensuring nails stay immaculate throughout the celebrations.
Thoughtful touch: cuticle care and massage
Each treatment includes detailed cuticle work and a gentle hand massage to enhance both appearance and relaxation.
A calm and considered atmosphere
Our team brings a sense of ease to the space, offering not just beauty services but a moment of stillness in the midst of a busy day.
Ideal for bridal parties, parents of the couple, or a quiet evening-in before the big day.
On-Site Massage to Release the Build-Up
The lead-up to a wedding often brings with it a mix of excitement and tension. Our chair massage sessions offer quick, targeted relief — no oil, no undressing, just effective care.
Targeted treatment
Focusing on shoulders, neck, back and jaw, where wedding stress tends to accumulate.
Experienced therapists
All our practitioners are trained in high-pressure environments and can work discreetly in hotel rooms, private spaces or behind the scenes.
Fast-acting relief
Sessions can be as short as 15 minutes, with lasting benefits — from muscle ease to emotional regulation.
This service is especially valued by those who’ve been carrying the logistical load: the organiser, the anxious parent, or the bride or groom who needs a moment to themselves.
Breathwork and Yoga for a Grounded Start
Wedding mornings can feel chaotic. A short, well-structured wellness session can shift the entire tone of the day.
Tailored to your needs
Whether it’s an energising flow or a calming yin practice, we work with your schedule and mood.
Breath-led focus
We incorporate specific breathing techniques to support the nervous system, reduce cortisol, and promote calm clarity.
Mindful movement for all ages
No previous experience needed. We’ve guided yoga sessions for everyone from best friends to grandparents.
"Sue was great… she made it as comfortable as possible for all of us."
We pride ourselves on creating welcoming, emotionally sensitive spaces — even when plans change unexpectedly.
Holistic Extras for Emotional Balance
Sometimes, it’s the subtle touches that make the deepest impact. We can build in holistic elements to enhance the emotional atmosphere.
Facial massage and gua sha
Promotes lymphatic drainage, reduces puffiness and leaves the skin glowing — but more importantly, it’s deeply calming.
Scent and space setting
From aromatherapy oils to soft lighting and curated playlists, we help shape a sensory environment that supports peace.
Ritual and intention
For those who wish, we can facilitate gentle energy clearing or intention-setting practices to mark the transition into this new life chapter.
These elements often become the most meaningful moments of the day — especially in emotionally complex circumstances.
Not Just for the Bride
We work with everyone involved — from grooms to grandparents, parents to friends. Our services are inclusive, adaptable and always offered with discretion and care.
"We had a last-minute change of plans to my sister’s wedding party of ten… couldn’t recommend enough."
Book Your Wedding Wellness
Weddings are emotional. That’s part of their power. But they don’t have to run on adrenaline.
Our tailored treatments bring stillness into the whirlwind — and help you feel fully present for what matters.
To find out more or create your own bespoke wedding wellness programme, get in touch.
From Grounding to Growth: Integrating Coaching into Workplace Wellbeing
At Pamper Puff, we believe that true workplace wellbeing doesn’t begin and end with a massage. Real, lasting wellness happens when we balance short-term care with long-term strategy. That’s where coaching comes in.
Why lasting wellness means offering both immediate care and long-term support
At Pamper Puff, we believe that true workplace wellbeing doesn’t begin and end with a massage. Though we do love a good massage. Real, lasting wellness happens when we balance short-term care with long-term strategy. That’s where coaching comes in.
Wellness is more than a moment
Massages, manicures, breathwork and yoga are powerful, in-the-moment interventions. They calm the nervous system, encourage rest, and offer employees a vital opportunity to switch off.
But what happens when the meeting starts again? When inboxes fill, deadlines loom, or a difficult conversation is waiting?
This is where coaching offers something different. It picks up where the treatment leaves off. Not replacing it, but reinforcing it. Coaching helps employees process, reflect, and make real changes in how they work and relate to others.
Coaching strengthens the whole system
With workplace coaching, your team gets personalised support to:
Build emotional resilience
Improve self-awareness and decision-making
Navigate stress and conflict
Set boundaries and communicate clearly
Clarify goals and stay connected to purpose
It is not therapy. It is not a performance review. It is a dedicated space for growth, mindset shift, and meaningful support, led by a trained, trauma-informed coach.
The science supports it
According to a 2020 study in the Consulting Psychology Journal, coaching has significant, measurable impacts on employee wellbeing, performance, and confidence.¹ And a report by the International Coaching Federation² found that companies offering coaching see:
70% improvement in individual performance
61% improvement in team functioning
88% satisfaction with ROI on coaching investment
Grounding and growth create lasting impact
Our approach at Pamper Puff is layered. We believe that wellbeing at work should start with care. Relaxing treatments that calm the body and reset the nervous system. But it should not stop there.
By integrating coaching, you give your team the tools to reflect, grow and take what they have learned into the rest of their lives. Whether that is managing stress, navigating conflict, or simply remembering to breathe.
Let’s create space for both
We have partnered with Sue Cheung, an experienced, trauma-informed coach and mindfulness teacher, to offer one-on-one and group coaching sessions alongside our existing treatments.
Whether you are booking a one-off reset day or building a more robust wellbeing programme, we are here to help you create a culture where people feel calm, capable and genuinely cared for.
Global Wellness Day June 14th: Why Workplace Wellbeing Isn’t Just a Perk
Each year, on the second Saturday of June, Global Wellness Day invites us to reflect on how we live and how we work. Since its founding in 2012 by Turkish wellness advocate Belgin Aksoy, the day has grown into a worldwide movement spanning over 170 countries. It encourages individuals and organisations alike to recognise that good health and mental balance are not luxuries but essentials.
Each year, on the second Saturday of June, Global Wellness Day invites us to reflect on how we live and how we work. Since its founding in 2012 by Turkish wellness advocate Belgin Aksoy, the day has grown into a worldwide movement spanning over 170 countries. It encourages individuals and organisations alike to recognise that good health and mental balance are not luxuries but essentials.
But as wellness has gained traction in mainstream culture, from yoga studios to corporate handbooks, it has also faced scrutiny. The rise of wellness influencers and brands like Gwyneth Paltrow’s Goop has helped to popularise holistic living while also contributing to its image as something aspirational or exclusive. The conversation is evolving. Wellness is no longer just about personal optimisation. It is about collective responsibility.
From Individual Effort to Collective Care
In Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle, Emily Nagoski writes:
“Wellness is not a state of being, it’s a state of action.”
Wellness isn’t something we achieve in isolation, especially in environments where stress, long hours and lack of boundaries are the norm. It’s not enough to offer a lunchtime yoga class if people are returning to overflowing inboxes and unrealistic expectations. The deeper structures need attention too.
As Gabor Maté puts it in The Myth of Normal:
“We live in a society that largely denies or ignores the impact of social conditions on individual health.”
We see this truth daily at Pamper Puff. Corporate wellness programmes aren’t about ticking boxes. They are about reshaping workplace culture to value people as whole human beings.
Why Employers Can’t Opt Out of Wellness
Workplace wellbeing is more than a perk. It is a responsibility. According to Gallup, employees who believe their employer cares about their wellbeing are significantly less likely to burn out or look for other jobs. The message is clear. Wellness builds loyalty, trust and resilience. Not just in individuals, but across teams.
In Lost Connections, Johann Hari writes:
“The more I investigated, the clearer it became that our culture is giving us what we need less and less.”
Wellness, then, is not just about food, fitness or mindfulness apps. It is about connection. To self. To others. To something bigger than the daily grind.
What Global Wellness Day Should Remind Us
Rather than turning wellbeing into a performance, Global Wellness Day should prompt honest reflection:
Are our workplace policies truly sustainable?
Are we encouraging rest, not just resilience?
Is our approach to wellness integrated or incidental?
At Pamper Puff, we work with organisations to design wellness experiences that are grounded, inclusive and intentional. From chair massage and guided meditation to art therapy and breathwork, our programmes support employees not as problems to be solved, but as people to be supported.
Because wellness isn’t just a personal journey. It is a shared responsibility. And it starts where we spend most of our waking hours — at work.
More Than a Pose: Honouring International Yoga Day
21st June marks International Yoga Day, a global celebration of a practice that’s been quietly transforming lives for thousands of years. While yoga might evoke images of downward dogs and sun salutations, its true power reaches far beyond the mat. At its heart, yoga is a system of wellbeing — one that unites the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
21st June marks International Yoga Day, a global celebration of a practice that’s been quietly transforming lives for thousands of years. While yoga might evoke images of downward dogs and sun salutations, its true power reaches far beyond the mat. At its heart, yoga is a system of wellbeing — one that unites the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual.
More Than Movement
Modern yoga classes often focus on asana — the physical postures — but traditionally, asana is only one part of a broader framework. Breathwork (pranayama), meditation (dhyana), mudras (hand gestures), and ethical principles are all essential aspects of the yogic path.
In today’s hyper-connected world, where burnout and overwhelm are commonplace, yoga offers more than fitness. It offers a reset.
The Science Behind the Stillness
A growing body of research supports what ancient yogis knew intuitively:
Mental Health & Stress
A 2017 meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found that yoga can significantly reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Regular practice helps regulate the autonomic nervous system, reducing cortisol (the stress hormone) and enhancing serotonin levels.
Breathing for the Brain
Breath-focused practices like alternate nostril breathing and diaphragmatic breathing are shown to calm the mind, sharpen focus, and reduce blood pressure. A 2020 study in The Journal of Clinical Psychology found that even short bouts of pranayama significantly lowered anxiety in participants with high stress levels.
Mindfulness & Meditation
Meditation, an integral part of yoga, is proven to increase grey matter in the brain regions linked to emotional regulation and memory. Studies also show it boosts resilience, making it easier to navigate life’s inevitable curveballs.
Yoga in the Workplace: More Than a Wellness Trend
At Pamper Puff, we see firsthand how yoga can uplift workplaces. It’s not just about flexibility (though that helps) — it’s about restoring focus, easing muscular tension from desk work, and creating a space where people can breathe, pause, and reset.
Whether it's a 15-minute desk stretch session or a guided lunchtime meditation, integrating yoga into the workday improves:
Concentration and productivity
Team morale and cohesion
Posture and physical wellbeing
Stress management and mental clarity
Companies that offer yoga and mindfulness report fewer sick days, better retention, and a more grounded, energised team.
A Gentle Reminder
Today, take a moment to honour your breath. Stretch your arms. Close your eyes for sixty seconds and feel the air move through your nose.
This is yoga. Not performance, but presence.
Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned practitioner, International Yoga Day is an invitation — not to perfect your form, but to reconnect with your inner space.
Let’s Bring It Into Your Day
Want to offer your team a grounding breathwork session? Curious about desk yoga or office meditation? We’d love to bring our wellbeing sessions to your workplace — tailored, inclusive, and easy to integrate into busy schedules.
Because wellbeing shouldn’t wait for the weekend.
Happy International Yoga Day from all of us at Pamper Puff.
Why Weddings Need Wellness — and How We Bring It
While we focus on workplace wellness, we’ve supported weddings since day one — and it’s always felt like a natural fit.
While we focus on workplace wellness, we’ve supported weddings since day one — and it’s always felt like a natural fit.
At Pamper Puff, we’re known for bringing calm and care into the corporate world — manicures at desks, massages between meetings, and moments of stillness that make the workday feel better. But behind the scenes, we’ve also been quietly looking after brides.
From London townhouses to countryside garden weddings, we’ve supported couples with thoughtful wellbeing experiences that take the edge off the pressure and bring people back to themselves. It’s something we love to do — and something we do well.
What We Offer
On-Site Nail Bars
We set up discreet, elegant nail stations wherever you need them — dressing rooms, hotels, venues. Our manicurists are fast, calm and professional, with a full range of Essie shades to suit every style.
Massage for Bridal Parties
Choose from seated or table massage for yourself, your family or your friends — a simple way to ease tension and help everyone feel more like themselves.
Wine, Cheese & Wellness Hen Dos
In partnership with our sister wine business, we offer relaxed hen events with seasonal cheese, natural wine tastings and the option of hand massage or reflexology. It's a more grown-up kind of celebration — but still full of joy.
Pre-Wedding Yoga & Breathwork
We offer gentle yoga or breath sessions before or after the main event — a way to reconnect, soften nerves, and steady the moment. Everything is tailored to your group and setting.
Why Wellness Makes Weddings Better
Weddings are joyful, emotional, and often overwhelming. Building in wellbeing services can make all the difference — for the couple, the families, and the guests.
Helps You Stay Present: Yoga, massage and breathwork create space to slow down and actually feel the moment — not just rush through it.
Reduces Stress and Tension: Pre-wedding nerves are real. A calming treatment can help ease the pressure, quiet the noise, and restore focus.
Improves How Everyone Feels: From aching feet to tight shoulders, small wellbeing touches help guests and loved ones feel comfortable, relaxed and included.
Creates Memorable Experiences: Whether it’s a morning movement session or a wine tasting with wellness built in, these moments stay with people — they remember how it felt.
Reflects the Shift in Modern Weddings: Today’s celebrations are more thoughtful, more personal, and more experience-led. Wellbeing fits naturally into that picture.
A Natural Extension of What We Do
While we focus on workplace wellness, we’ve supported weddings since day one — and it’s always felt like a natural fit.
We bring the same professionalism, warmth and polish to weddings as we do to offices — with a softer, more personal touch. We understand the logistics, the pressure, and the emotional weight of the day, and we’re there to ease it — quietly, beautifully, and without adding noise.
Why Service Makes Us Happier – And How We Turned That Into a Business
Service makes us happier. Not just emotionally, but physically – boosting feel-good hormones, lowering blood pressure, and creating a sense of connection and meaning.
At Pamper Puff, that insight is at the heart of everything we do.
We often think of wellness as something you do for yourself – a yoga class, a massage, a few mindful minutes. But there’s another kind of wellness that goes deeper. One that’s rooted not in self-care, but in service.
Psychologists have long found that helping others creates a profound ripple effect in our wellbeing. A major study published in the Journal of Happiness Studies found that those who regularly engage in small acts of service – whether at work, at home, or in the community – report higher levels of satisfaction and lower levels of stress and depression. Another UK-based survey found that 63% of people feel more positive after simply doing something kind for someone else.
Service makes us happier. Not just emotionally, but physically – boosting feel-good hormones, lowering blood pressure, and creating a sense of connection and meaning.
At Pamper Puff, that insight is at the heart of everything we do.
We began not as a beauty or wellness brand, but with a simple question: how can we make people feel better, especially in places where stress runs high?
The Answer? Bring Wellness Into the Workplace
Work is where most of us spend the majority of our waking hours – and yet it’s also where stress, burnout, and disconnection often go unaddressed. We saw an opportunity to change that.
Pamper Puff was created to make care part of the culture at work. We deliver on-site and virtual wellness services designed to meet employees where they are – in the middle of a meeting-filled day, at their desk, or winding down in a quiet breakout space.
From chair massages that release tension in 15 minutes, to on-site manicures, yoga and meditation sessions, and art therapy workshops, everything we offer is crafted to give people a moment of real relief and reconnection. Our wellness room consultations even help businesses create dedicated calm spaces within their offices.
And the results speak for themselves. Companies that invest in wellness report:
28% reduction in employee sick days
Higher morale and job satisfaction
Improved focus and productivity
Lower staff turnover
(Source: CIPD, UK Workplace Health Report 2022)
Why We Do What We Do
Our founders – two working mums with backgrounds in wellness – understood both the need for care and the challenge of accessing it. They saw how hard people work, how much they give, and how little time they have to receive. So they used their experience to start something small but meaningful: bringing wellness treatments directly into offices across the UK.
We believe wellness shouldn’t be a luxury or an afterthought. It should be embedded into the rhythm of the day – something that companies offer proudly, and employees feel comfortable receiving.
Whether you’re a business looking to support your team or someone seeking to shift the culture around wellbeing, we’re here to help.
Because when we take care of each other, everyone thrives
Training Managers to Recognise and Address Burnout
Burnout is no longer just a personal problem; it is a workplace issue with wide-reaching consequences. According to a 2023 Gallup report, 76% of employees experience burnout at least sometimes, and 28% report feeling burned out very often or always. For tech companies in particular, where long hours, constant connectivity and high performance expectations are common, the risk of burnout can be even higher.
Burnout is no longer just a personal problem; it is a workplace issue with wide-reaching consequences. According to a 2023 Gallup report, 76% of employees experience burnout at least sometimes, and 28% report feeling burned out very often or always. For tech companies in particular, where long hours, constant connectivity and high performance expectations are common, the risk of burnout is especially high.
Managers play a critical role in preventing and managing burnout. They influence culture, model behaviour and are often the first to notice problems before HR or senior leadership becomes aware. Yet many managers have not been trained to recognise the signs of burnout or to respond in ways that support employee wellbeing.
Recognising the Signs of Burnout
Burnout often develops gradually. Managers should be trained to look out for:
Persistent fatigue or low energy
Noticeable disengagement or withdrawal
Increased irritability or flat mood
A decline in productivity, creativity or problem-solving
Avoidance of collaboration or reduced communication
These behaviours might be dismissed as temporary or personality-driven, but they are often signs of long-term workplace stress.
What Managers Can Do
Providing managers with practical tools and frameworks makes a real difference. Effective training should include:
How to open up conversations about wellbeing
Example question: How have you been feeling about your workload recently?
Frequency: Monthly 1:1s or informal check-ins
Feedback loop: Identify recurring themes and escalate to leadership or resource planning
How to measure impact: Trends in engagement surveys, reduced turnover, qualitative feedback
Techniques for monitoring stress levels in a hybrid team
Example question: Are there particular tasks or tools that feel harder to manage remotely?
Frequency: Weekly team check-ins or anonymous pulse surveys
Feedback loop: Share emerging trends with wellbeing leads
How to measure impact: Fewer unplanned absences, improved project flow
Modelling healthy work-life boundaries
Example action: Refrain from sending emails outside core hours
Frequency: Embed expectations in team charters and onboarding
Feedback loop: Encourage feedback in retrospectives or via line managers
How to measure impact: Improved satisfaction in work-life balance indicators
Ensuring fair workload distribution and realistic goals
Example action: Use visual planning tools to track individual capacity
Frequency: Project kick-offs and sprint planning sessions
Feedback loop: Encourage flagging of bottlenecks in shared platforms
How to measure impact: More predictable delivery, fewer last-minute escalations
Creating a Culture That Supports Recovery
Burnout is not resolved through individual resilience alone. It requires a cultural shift towards pacing, prioritisation and permission to rest. Managers who can lead with empathy and structure set the tone for healthier teams.
A Practical Add-On: Making Rest Tangible
Some organisations now offer occasional in-office wellbeing sessions such as massages or guided mindfulness. These can serve as a welcome reset during demanding periods and show that mental health is taken seriously in practice, not just in policy. Pamper Puff, for example, is a mobile wellness provider that delivers these kinds of treatments directly to workplaces, making it easier for employees to pause and recharge without needing to travel or book time off.
Supporting your managers with knowledge, tools and visible wellbeing options could be one of the most strategic steps you take this Mental Health Awareness Month.