Feeling The Post-Christmas Blues? 6 Self-Care Tips to Uplift Your Spirit

By Trina Basaysay

Now that the dust has settled from the hustle and bustle of the Christmas celebrations, many are now looking forward to the New Year’s eve countdown and the breathtaking fireworks with much excitement. But as the calendar page is about to turn to 2023, others might feel a bit down.   

Perhaps you don‘t feel good about how much you ate last Christmas, or how much your house feels empty right now. Maybe the idea of taking down holiday decorations once you usher in the new year might make you sad and depressed. Or maybe you aren‘t too keen on returning to your regular daily routine after the holidays.   

If this is you, you may be experiencing the blues after Christmas. Let’s dive into what post-Christmas blues are and how you can boost your spirits after the Christmas period!

What You Should Know About Post-Christmas Blues   

While it manifests symptoms similar to other mental health conditions, including sadness, headaches, lack of motivation, and insomnia, the post-Christmas blues are different from more serious mental health issues such as anxiety disorder. 

One major distinction is that post-Christmas blues last just a few weeks into the new year, said the US-based Center for Treatment of Anxiety and Mood Disorders. You can also still go about your everyday chores or routines. But speak to your doctor if you feel that you need someone to talk to about how you’re feeling. 

So what’s causing the blues after the Christmas celebration? According to Noel Bell,  a Clinical Psychotherapist in London, the condition has not been fully studied yet. But one of the factors that could trigger the symptoms is “the sudden withdrawal of stress hormones that follows a significant social event,” he wrote. 

Simple Ways To Help Cheer You Up

Looking after your emotional well-being through some self-care routines may help improve how you’re feeling right now and cheer you up. Here are some tips that may help boost your spirit and make you feel excited about the new opportunities in the new year.   

1. Exercise

Get your fitness mode on. Sports Medicine Specialist Robert Gotlin of New York-based Lenox Hill Hospital notes that exercise plays a role not only in your fitness but also in your overall health and well-being.  

After overindulging in alcoholic drinks and sugary foods, it’s time to allot some workout time. You may start small by jogging or walking around the neighborhood daily. This will also allow you to get some fresh air to help boost your emotional and mental health. Or you can hit the gym and do some strength training or intense cardio exercises alone or with your fitness buddies.

2. Eat Healthy

Not only do nutritious foods make your body strong but they are also a mood booster. Some foods that have been found to boost your mental and emotional well-being include:

     • Omega 3 fatty acids such as salmon
     • Banana
     • Dark chocolate
     • Oats
     • Quinoa and sweet potatoes
     • Chicken, nuts, and soybeans 
     • Eggs 

3. Create a To-Do List

It helps to occupy your mind with stuff that makes you feel more productive. A to-do list will allow you to be strategic, focused, and organized as you go about your tasks, therefore saving you a lot of energy, time, and resources. But keep your list simple- a maximum of 3 items- so as not to overwhelm and stress you out. 

4. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

Being aware of the present moment and meditating are proven to improve your overall health and well-being. Studies have found mindfulness and meditation practices allow you to better manage your stress, anxiety, pain, depression, and other related symptoms.

5. Set Healthy Boundaries

Dr. Jo Nash, who obtained her Ph.D. in Psychotherapy Studies from the University of Sheffield in the UK, wrote that healthy boundaries create healthy relationships and are good for your psychological well-being. According to her, it's because boundaries define "our expectations of ourselves and others in different kinds of relationships.” 

Saying no to more social commitments for the New Year celebration is a healthy form of boundary. This way, you’re protecting your mind and body from the stress and exhaustion that come with attending festivities beyond what you can handle. 

6. Focus on “Me Time”

With a healthy boundary, you can focus more on recharging your batteries and doing the things that you love such as working out, going to the spa, and many more. Taking time to have a “me time” reduces your stress and anxiety as well as allows you to connect and understand your body and emotions. This enables you to better address your needs for the sake of your physical and mental health. 

Conclusion

After Christmas, you may feel sad and lonely. Try not to be too hard on yourself. Speak to someone who cares about you or your doctor if you need help.