The holidays have come and gone. Overspending, overeating, and seriously screwed-up schedules have all taken their toll. Exhausted from all the extras, it’s normal to feel a sense of emptiness when it’s all over.  

We’re often left unmotivated, moody, stressed, stuffed, and generally out of whack. Add in other serious issues, like grieving a loss, and it all feels overwhelming. 

But there are ways to help your mind and body get back on track. Self-care is key. 

After the season of excess, keeping tabs on your intake is important. Don’t stress about achieving perfection. Instead, start implementing a few changes here and there. 

Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables and lean protein. And stop eating a few hours before bedtime, as even a twelve-hour overnight fast helps digestive health. Transitioning to lighter dinners after the traditional holiday fare will increase energy levels in the morning. Then try a breakfast higher in fiber, such as oatmeal with berries or a smoothie with leafy greens or seeds. For snacking, consider fresh fruits, veggies, and nuts. Foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals help in many ways, improving energy levels, mood, organ function, and overall health. 

Hydration is especially important because holiday meals and treats are typically high in sodium. Aim for the suggested 8 glasses of water a day to help with fatigue and brain fog, as well as skin and digestive health. Sip room-temperature water throughout the day, which is better for hydration than ice water. Adding cucumber, turmeric, ginger, or lemon can help with metabolism, digestion, and better sleep. 

Another component of self-care after the hectic holiday season is getting adequate rest. Experts recommend 7 – 8 hours of sleep each night to give your body time to reset and repair. Quality sleep also helps with mood, weight loss, and detoxification. If falling asleep is the tricky part, start winding down two hours before bedtime. Changing habits, such as cutting down screen time and lowering overall light levels, can help ease you into a restful mood. Resuming regular bedtimes and wake times helps maintain a healthy circadian rhythm, keeping your body’s processes in sync.

After the holidays, it’s not necessary – or even advised – to start intense workouts. Gradual changes and consistency tend to be more beneficial and sustainable. Walking, stretching, and yoga are all ways to get your body moving. While exercise burns calories and improves cardiovascular health, it also boosts mood and energy levels, supports digestion, and helps with other bodily functions. 

There are more helpful ways to ease back into a healthy post-holiday routine. Resume activities that you enjoy or start something new. Spend time in nature, rekindle a hobby, take walks, or read books. And schedule activities you enjoy and look forward to, such as game nights with friends, coffee dates, or a future trip or weekend getaway. Keep connections with friends and family going. 

Try any of these methods to help reset and get back into a post-holiday rhythm. Be kind to yourself and try not to feel overwhelmed, as snapping back to a regular routine won’t happen overnight. Making small changes and consistency are keys to overcoming the post-holiday slump.