The holidays are a whirlwind, aren’t they? Between shopping for gifts, hosting family dinners, and trying to soak in the “magic of the season,” it’s easy to feel like you’ve been running on fumes. And when the festive lights come down and life settles back into its normal rhythm, you’re left with the aftermath: post-holiday stress.
I know this feeling all too well. For years, I would throw myself into the holiday season with everything I had, only to feel drained, anxious, and a little lost come January. But over time, I’ve learned how to navigate this post-holiday slump, and I want to share some practical tips to help you recharge, find calm, and start the new year on a balanced note.
Why Post-Holiday Stress Hits So Hard
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s talk about why this stress happens in the first place.
For many of us, the holiday season brings heightened emotions, financial pressures, and packed schedules. We push ourselves to make everything “perfect,” often at the expense of our own well-being. Once it’s over, we’re left with physical exhaustion, emotional fatigue, and sometimes a touch of the blues.
If you’re feeling this way, know that you’re not alone—and it’s okay to take some time to reset.
1. Declutter Your Space and Mind
When the decorations come down, I always feel a mix of sadness and relief. The house looks bare, but it also feels like a fresh start. Take advantage of this moment to declutter—not just your home, but your mind as well.
What to do:
- Start small. Tackle one room or even one drawer at a time. Donate items you no longer need, and organize what you’re keeping.
- Journaling can be a great way to declutter your thoughts. Write about what went well during the holidays and what felt overwhelming. It helps to release lingering stress and gain clarity.
2. Prioritize Rest—Without Guilt
I used to feel guilty for resting, like I needed to “make up” for the time I spent relaxing over the holidays. But here’s the truth: Rest is not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
What to do:
- Give yourself permission to slow down. That might mean taking a nap, enjoying a lazy weekend morning, or binge-watching your favorite show guilt-free.
- Create a bedtime routine that helps you wind down. I swear by lavender-scented candles and a good book to help me transition into sleep mode.
3. Set Boundaries for Your Time and Energy
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that saying “no” is a form of self-care. After the holidays, it’s easy to feel pulled in a million directions—work deadlines, social obligations, and family commitments.
What to do:
- Be intentional about your calendar. Leave space for downtime, and don’t overcommit.
- Practice saying no in a kind but firm way. For example, “I’d love to help, but I need some time to recharge right now.”
4. Move Your Body, Gently
If you’re anything like me, the holidays might have thrown your usual routines out of whack. Getting back into movement—even gently—can help shake off that post-holiday sluggishness.
What to do:
- Go for a walk. There’s something about fresh air that clears your mind and boosts your mood.
- Try yoga or stretching. I love a quick 10-minute yoga flow to reconnect with my body and release tension.
- Don’t pressure yourself to “work off” the holidays. Movement should feel good, not like a punishment.
5. Revisit Your Budget Without Fear
Let’s be real—holiday spending can leave us feeling a bit stressed. For years, I avoided looking at my bank account in January because I didn’t want to face the damage. But avoiding it only made me more anxious.
What to do:
- Take a deep breath and assess your finances. Make a plan to pay off any lingering holiday expenses.
- Create a simple budget for the new year. It doesn’t have to be perfect—just something to help you feel more in control.
- Celebrate small wins, like saving on your coffee budget or skipping unnecessary purchases.
6. Reconnect with What Brings You Joy
After the holiday chaos, it’s easy to feel like you’re in a bit of a rut. I’ve found that reconnecting with simple joys can be incredibly grounding.
What to do:
- Rediscover hobbies you might have put on hold, whether it’s painting, cooking, or gardening.
- Spend quality time with loved ones in a low-pressure way. A casual coffee date or a phone call can be just what you need.
- Reflect on what truly makes you happy and consider how you can incorporate more of that into your daily life.
7. Practice Gratitude and Reflection
When the post-holiday blues hit, gratitude can be a powerful antidote. It’s not about ignoring what’s hard—it’s about finding the light amidst the shadows.
What to do:
- Start a gratitude journal. Write down three things you’re grateful for each day.
- Reflect on the moments of joy from the holiday season, no matter how small. Maybe it was a heartfelt conversation, a favorite dish, or the laughter of loved ones.
Give Yourself Grace
The most important thing I’ve learned about post-holiday stress is to give myself grace. You don’t have to have it all figured out, and it’s okay to take things one day at a time.
As you ease back into your routines, remember: Healing and recharging aren’t linear processes. Some days will feel better than others, and that’s perfectly normal. The key is to show up for yourself with kindness and compassion, just as you would for a dear friend.
Let’s make 2025 the year we prioritize our well-being—not just during the holidays, but every single day. You’ve got this—and I’m here cheering you on every step of the way.
