The festive season has drawn to a close, and as the decorations come down, many find themselves grappling with a sense of post-holiday blues. The transition from the joyous celebrations to the routine of daily life can be challenging, but it’s essential to remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way.
The very first time I can remember feeling post holiday sadness, I was in the 5th grade. We went out of town for spring break and Easter. Break was over and I was back in my classroom. This is when we had to put our chairs flipped over on top of our desks at the end of the day. I was standing at my desk flipping my chair back down and thinking UGH i don’t want to be back here in this classroom. I got this overwhelming sense of sadness. I am not a person that is typically sad so this was a weird feeling. Since then it feels like every year gets harder and harder after holidays and vacations to return to normal life! I love my life too! Love all my jobs and my day to day routine.
I hear my kids dreading going back to school too. I think we have become a society that just go, go, goes and works hard that when we slow down and have a break we don’t want to go back to the hustle and day to day monotony.
1. Acknowledge Your Feelings:
It’s okay to feel a bit down after the holidays. Acknowledge your emotions and understand that this period of adjustment is normal. Reflect on the positive aspects of the holiday season, but don’t dwell on comparing it to everyday life.
2. Set Realistic Goals:
Instead of overwhelming yourself with lofty New Year’s resolutions, set achievable and realistic goals. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed. This approach allows you to celebrate small victories and maintain a positive mindset.
3. Maintain Social Connections:
The holiday season often involves spending quality time with loved ones. Even as routines resume, make an effort to maintain social connections. Schedule gatherings or virtual meet-ups to keep the spirit of togetherness alive and combat feelings of isolation.
4. Create New Traditions:
While the holidays may be over, there’s no reason why you can’t introduce new traditions throughout the year. This could be as simple as a monthly game night, a weekend hike, or trying out new recipes. Building anticipation for these events can provide a positive focus.
5. Focus on Self-Care:
Invest time in self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a long bath, relaxing on the couch watching a movie, or practicing mindfulness, prioritize activities that nourish your well-being and provide a sense of comfort.
6. Embrace a Healthy Lifestyle:
Physical well-being plays a significant role in mental health. Incorporate regular exercise and a balanced diet into your routine. Establishing healthy habits can boost your mood and energy levels, helping to counteract the post-holiday slump.
7. Gratitude Journaling:
Start a gratitude journal to cultivate a positive mindset. Each day, jot down a few things you’re thankful for. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective and counteract any lingering post-holiday negativity.
8. Plan for the Future:
Set exciting plans and events for the upcoming months. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, a new hobby, or a project at work, having something to look forward to can inject enthusiasm into your daily life.
Nikki Lanigan
Nikki Lanigan is a yoga, HIIT, and Barre instructor, she is also a Holistic Health Coach through Institute of Integrative Nutrition. Nikki is trained in Yoga Shred, Yoga Psychology, meditation, chakra balancing, and EFT/Tapping. She has done trainings with Sadie Nardini and Ashley Turner. She got her 200 hour yoga teacher training in 2017 at the Carrie Treister School Of Yoga. Nikki takes a holistic view of health, helping her students and clients reach a place of self-love not just through movement, but with mindset and lifestyle guidance as well. Nikki is also show prep writer for The McVay Media Show Prep and host of the podcast Fit, Fun, and Frazzled. Connect with Nikki on Instagram. www.instagram.com/nikkilanigan.yogaandwellness www.instagram.com/fitfunandfrazzledpodcast
