The holiday season is a whirlwind of joy, celebration, and connection. From intimate family gatherings to lively parties overflowing with festive treats, the end of the year is often filled with memorable moments that leave us feeling connected and content.
But what happens when the decorations are packed away, the last bite of dessert is gone, and life settles back into its usual routine?
For many, this transition can bring a sense of emptiness and melancholy, often referred to as the post-holiday blues. This emotional dip is more common than you might realize .Recognizing why this shift affects us is an important first step in navigating the post-holiday blues. By understanding that these feelings are a natural response to the season’s end, we can begin to find ways to cope and get back to feeling like ourselves.
Are the post-holiday blues real?
The holidays are undoubtedly a stressful time for many. A survey published by the American Psychological Association found that 41% of people feel more stressed during the holiday season. And, according to a 2021 survey from the National Alliance on Mental Illness, three in five Americans feel their mental health takes a hit during the holidays.
So, it might be surprising that some people feel down — rather than relieved — when the holidays are over.
The post-holiday blues can resemble mood and anxiety disorders, with symptoms such as low energy, irritability, difficulty concentrating, insomnia, and feelings of anxiousness. While not a clinical condition, the post-holiday blues are something many people experience. Shorter days, returning to routine, and the financial toll of holiday spending can all play a role in this feeling.
While these feelings are typically temporary, they can be unsettling, especially when contrasted with the festive highs of the holiday season.
How to feel better after the holidays
If the post-holiday slump is getting to you, the good news is there are plenty of ways to lift your spirits and get back on track. These strategies can help you move through this transitional period:
Embrace a routine
One of the biggest shifts after the holidays is the return to routine. While it might seem dull compared to holiday excitement, routines provide structure and stability. Try setting a schedule that includes regular mealtimes, consistent sleep patterns, and planned activities. Having a routine can help you regain a sense of normalcy and purpose.
Prioritize self-care
The holidays often leave us feeling depleted, both physically and emotionally. Post-celebration is the time to focus on self-care. This could mean taking a relaxing bath, enjoying a favorite book, or making time for physical activity. If you own a Master Spas hot tub, use it to carve out moments of relaxation. Even just 20 minutes in a hot tub can help you feel better, physically and mentally. The warm water and soothing jets can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and promote better sleep.
Get moving
Exercise is a proven mood booster with benefits that extend far beyond physical health. When you engage in physical activity, your body releases endorphins, which are often referred to as the body’s natural “happy hormones.” These chemicals interact with receptors in the brain to reduce pain perception and trigger positive feelings, helping to combat sadness and stress.
In addition to endorphins, regular exercise can lower levels of stress hormones like cortisol, promote better sleep, and improve overall energy levels, all of which contribute to a more balanced mood. Exercise has also been shown to enhance brain function by increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain, which can improve focus and reduce feelings of mental fatigue.
The best part? Exercise doesn’t have to mean grueling workouts at the gym. Whether it’s a brisk walk in the fresh air, a calming yoga session, or swimming in a swim spa, the key is to find an activity that you genuinely enjoy.
Practice gratitude
Shifting your focus to the positives in your life can make a big difference. Research in positive psychology consistently shows that gratitude is linked to increased happiness. Practicing gratitude can enhance positive emotions, allow individuals to savor good experiences, boost their well-being, help them cope with challenges, and strengthen their relationships.
Consider starting a gratitude journal where you write down three things you’re thankful for each day. This simple practice can help you shift your perspective and appreciate the small joys in life.
Spend time outdoors
The winter months can feel long and dark, but stepping outside can do wonders for your mood. Natural light helps regulate your body’s internal clock and can improve your energy levels, even on cloudy days.
If you have a hot tub, it can be a perfect way to invite yourself outdoors, especially during the colder post-holiday season. The warm water provides a cozy escape from the chill, making it easier to embrace the outdoors without feeling uncomfortable.
Using your hot tub in the morning or early evening allows you to enjoy the calming effects of hydrotherapy while soaking up the natural light or the peaceful ambiance of a winter evening. This combination can help reduce stress, improve circulation, and give you a much-needed dose of fresh air, even when the weather is less inviting. Plus, spending time outside in your hot tub can create a routine that makes the winter months feel more enjoyable and less isolating.
Reconnect with loved ones
The holidays may be over, but the connections you’ve nurtured don’t have to be. Maintaining social ties can help you feel supported and combat loneliness.
Plan a coffee date, call a friend, or host a casual game night. You can even invite friends or family over for a soak and enjoy a conversation without the distraction of phones or other devices.
Tips for beating the post-holiday blues
The holiday season may be behind you, but that doesn’t mean the joy and energy you felt have to fade away completely. While it’s normal to feel a bit off-balance as life returns to its usual rhythm, there are ways to ease the transition and lift your mood.
Set goals for the year ahead
Rather than dwelling on the end of the holiday season, focus on what’s next. Setting achievable goals can give you something to look forward to and work toward. Whether it’s learning a new skill, planning a trip, or improving your fitness, having goals can keep you motivated.
Declutter and organize
Starting the new year with a tidy and organized space can do wonders for your mental well-being. Take some time to declutter and organize your home, focusing on areas that tend to collect clutter like closets, countertops, and storage spaces. The act of cleaning and reorganizing not only creates a sense of accomplishment but also helps you feel more in control of your environment, which can be particularly grounding during the post-holiday season.
You don’t have to stop indoors, though. You can extend the refresh to your outdoor space, especially your hot tub area. Consider giving your patio or deck a mini-makeover to make it an inviting retreat for year-round relaxation. Weather-permitting, you can clean your hot tub cover and wipe down surrounding surfaces. Also consider adding cozy touches like weather-resistant seating, outdoor rugs, or string lights. Incorporating plants or winter-friendly greenery can bring a touch of nature to the space, while a small storage unit or bench can keep towels and accessories within easy reach.
Indulge in a hobby
Hobbies are more than just a fun way to spend your free time. They can actually help improve your health and mood. Whether it’s painting, cooking, gardening, or something else you love, getting involved in activities you enjoy can bring a real sense of fulfillment and joy, especially during the post-holiday slump.
A study published in Nature Medicine shows just how important hobbies can be for your well-being. Researchers looked at data from over 93,000 people aged 65 and older in 16 countries, including the U.S., Japan, and several European nations. They found that people who had hobbies reported feeling healthier, happier, and less depressed than those who didn’t have any hobbies. The study showed that hobbies such as crafting, volunteering, gardening, or joining clubs do more than keep you engaged. They also offer creativity, relaxation, mental stimulation, and social connection.
Take care of your physical health
Taking care of your body with nutritious foods and plenty of water is key to feeling your best. Try to incorporate more whole foods into your meals, like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, which provide essential vitamins and minerals to support your overall health. Limiting excessive sugar and caffeine can also help stabilize your mood and energy levels, reducing the risk of energy crashes or irritability.
Quality sleep is another important factor in your physical well-being. The calming effects of a hot tub session can make a big difference in your sleep routine. Spending time in warm, soothing water helps relax your muscles and calm your mind, making it easier to unwind before bed. As a result, you may find it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night, leaving you feeling more rested and rejuvenated for the day ahead.
Be kind to yourself
Perhaps most importantly, practice self-compassion. It’s okay to feel a little low after such an exciting time of year. Give yourself permission to take it slow and focus on what makes you feel good.
When to seek medical advice
While the post-holiday blues are a common and temporary feeling, sometimes the emotional challenges you’re experiencing may be more than just a passing slump. If you find that feelings of sadness, anxiety, or loneliness persist for weeks, or if they start to interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek professional guidance.
Signs that you may need additional support include persistent feelings of hopelessness, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, or a lack of interest in activities you usually enjoy. These symptoms can be linked to mood disorders such as depression or anxiety, which require professional care and treatment.
Talking to a doctor, therapist, or mental health professional can help you get a clearer understanding of what you’re going through and provide the tools you need to feel better.
The post-holiday blues may be a natural part of the transition into a new year, but they don’t have to linger. By incorporating self-care, staying active, and finding joy in the little things, you can ease the shift and set a positive tone for the months ahead. And if you have a hot tub, it can be a wonderful tool in your arsenal for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Buy an all-season hot tub
Are you ready to invest in your well-being and backyard? Master Spas hot tubs can be enjoyed this year and many years to come. Click here to learn more about the benefits of hydrotherapy. Or, contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about hot tub ownership. Wondering how much a Master Spas hot tub costs? You can request a quote here.