Photo credit: Greg Lippert, Unsplash (no copyright infringement is intended.)
Many of us have used the term holiday blues after taking a staycation or trip abroad. Some have even used it after taking time off over Christmas. It’s the feelings that occur as we readjust back to work and our daily routines after a period away. Such feelings include anxiety and even depression. According to psychcentral, “There are a number of seasonal factors that contribute to these feelings including less sunlight, changes in diet and routine and increases in alcohol consumption. Others can be triggered by sentimental memories resulting in feelings of loneliness, sadness and fatigue.” When the clocks go back for Winter, we’re usually oblivious to the dark nights as the excitement builds for Christmas and New Year but as quickly as it comes around, it’s over! It’s the new year before we know it and back to the grind. For some, this can be a shock to the system. So how can we ease the process back to normality? Here are a few suggestions to help you overcome any holiday blues.
1.Start midweek:
Why not return to work on a Wednesday instead of Monday in the future? It will seem less daunting. You will only have to cope with 3 days of work before it’s the weekend again, thus easing you in gently and avoiding the dreaded Sunday night fear!
2. Take time out:
Not from work, you’ve only just returned, but from socialising. Christmas and New Year is a period used to socialise with loved ones, plus there are the obligatory work functions. By the end, many are exhausted, physically and mentally! It’s important to take time out to recharge the batteries and perhaps give the bank card a rest!
3. Overhaul your diet:
It doesn’t have to be a new year, new you but perhaps reach for those healthier options for a while. We’re all guilty of overindulging during the festive period or comfort eating through the cold nights but now could be a good time to make a change. With no more temptations, it might be easier to maintain a balanced diet. What we eat and drink affects our mood, but moderation is key. Exercise is just as important as good nutrition and vital for our mental wellbeing as well as physical. At least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity is recommended daily. Try and make little changes at a time like taking the stairs instead of the lift or going for a walk during your lunch break. Exercise plus fresh air can do wonders!
Photo credit: Pinterest (no copyright infringement is intended.)
4. Plan
For some, it might be easier to focus on one day at a time. However, scheduling plans can have a positive effect. This doesn’t have to be months in advance but perhaps for the following week. Although we said to take time out it’s still important to keep in touch with loved ones and not isolate yourself completely. It doesn’t have to be anything expensive it could simply be a coffee and a catch up at home. Christmas is a joyous time but often a bit hectic. Therefore, it can be hard to readjust to doing nothing and is often what triggers depression. Organising something can help alleviate these feelings.
Whatever your situation may be, remember to be patient and don’t set unrealistic expectations. We hope you had a great Christmas break and are feeling refreshed and ready for the year ahead.
