3 ways to manage post-holiday burnout

The holidays can look very different for each of us. For some, they mean large gatherings of family and friends, while for others, they can mean smaller, more intimate connections with a few close loved ones. They can even be spent alone, perhaps in quiet reflection. And the range of emotions associated with this time of year extends from joyful to melancholy and all points in between. 

Speaking for myself, the holidays are a big deal. My wife and I typically host large family gatherings, involving lots of preparation at home. It’s beautiful but also stressful. 

No matter how you experienced the holidays, one thing each of us may feel as the season wanes is exhaustion. The holidays can take an emotional, mental, and physical toll on us. I try to manage feelings of burnout after the holidays in three ways: disconnect, rest, and restore. 

1. Disconnect 

When the dust settles from the holidays, I need time to myself. In a large family like mine, that’s sometimes easier said than done. Taking time for myself can look like going for a long drive, taking a nice long walk, or reading. 

Taking time just for yourself, even for a few moments each day, can be really nourishing after the holidays. 

2. Rest

This is as simple as it sounds. But it might be easier said than done! I’ve heard it said that rest is a revolutionary act, and I couldn’t agree more. Taking time to deliberately rest, can look like going to bed an hour earlier, sleeping in for an additional 30 minutes, or taking a power nap in the middle of the day. Whatever it might look like for you, rest. Your mind, body, and heart will thank you.

3. Restore 

One of the most restorative practices for me is the practice of meditation. Taking some time to sit and be still, offering myself loving-kindness, or just working with the breath in a nourishing way through extended exhales, helps me to reconnect with and ground myself. 

This is a great time to revisit, continue, or establish a simple meditation practice. Through your kind attention and presence, you can take care of your mind, body, and heart.

I hope these tips are helpful in navigating the post-holiday fatigue some of us may be experiencing. I wish you the best today and always. Much love.