Banishing the “Post-Holiday Blues”
The worst thing about the holidays is having the “blues” after they’re over. The excitement of Santa, Hanukkah, wonderful meals, and family gatherings all mean one thing: when it is over you’re going to go back to your old boring routine and be in the same place you were prior to the holidays.
No matter how bad this gets it doesn’t have to continue. You can begin now and brighten post-holiday blues. It may take some changing on your part, as well as your whole family, but you all may start the New Year feeling better about yourselves. One of the most important ingredients missing post-holiday is structure. The holidays are spontaneous with family or friends that may spend the night, so your routine is put on hold. Structure will make you feel grounded again and help you focus on your goals for the New Year. The other ingredient missing post-holiday is the anticipation of something exciting happening. The holidays are all about excitement and enjoying time together with family and friends. When everyone goes back to work there is an empty feeling that leaves you feeling lackluster about your life.
Begin today preparing for post-holiday blues:
The quicker you begin to clean up the post-holiday clutter the better. Clutter makes us feel unorganized and lazy. Picking up the clutter and putting things away also teaches your children to take care of their things and transition into their routine.
Begin a new exercise program as soon as possible after the holidays. We all overeat and feel guilty about it. Kids feel better when they exercise and adults do too. It will get you all energized to begin the New Year on a healthy note.
Get invested in a new hobby or project. Learning new things or taking on a new project can help you feel connected and less alone. Holiday blues are exaggerated when family and friends leave and you begin feeling isolated.
Consider purchasing a light box. Seasonal Affect Disorder is real because shorter light hours does affect those suffering with depression. A light box can help minimize the effects of depression and help you feel better.
Make a gratitude jar or journal gratitude thoughts each day. The best New Year’s tradition is a gratitude jar. Encourage your children to write one thing they’re grateful for each day and make it a part of your daily practice. Adding gratitude to each day banishes holiday blues by reminding you to be thankful for the abundant graces you receive each day.
Post-holiday blues are common. By changing your post-holiday routine you can change your state of mind and savor your holiday memories well into the New Year.