How to beat the post-Christmas blues

The festivities are over. Days off – not anymore. The parties, socialising, activities, that feeling of warmth Christmas gives you is now gone.

We have weeks of a steady build up to Christmas Day. Excitement runs high on Christmas Eve, peaks on Christmas Day, and stays constant throughout and until New Year’s Eve. For most of us, not even until New Year’s Day. On this day it hits us that as of tomorrow, everything is back to norm. Bar the weight most of us have put on, and the cold weather that doesn’t seem quite as enjoyable now. And it has only just begun!

I get this mundane feeling of bleh post-Christmas. This is what I call the ‘post-Christmas blues’.
Thankfully, my kids’ birthdays in January and February perk me up a little bit. It’s not easy on our pockets, but at least we have something to look forward to!

In an effort to perk myself up, and to enjoy these otherwise bleak weeks following the holidays, I take action in little but rewarding ways.

Here is how I beat the post-Christmas blues

1. I get a mini-makeover

I always save a colour change or haircut for January or February. This really lifts my spirits and gives me a great boost! It’s something I would have planned anyway. The only difference is that I plan it for this particular time. I used to do this in time for Christmas a few years back, and then I realised it made more sense to schedule it for winter time. I was already energised enough during the holidays as it was!

2. By going hygge

We all look forward to taking down the tree and decorations once the holidays are over. Even though having out home back to norm gives an immense sense of relief, one cannot but agree that Christmas decorations ooze warmth which is lost once everything is packed into boxes and is stored away.
This is the time to go hygge. If you are not familiar with the term, hygge is a Danish concept. Despite the brutal Scandinavian winters, Danish people remain the happiest people on earth all year round. In simple terms is cosiness in the home. There is no actual translation in English, and it is more of a mood or frame of mind than an actual thing.
Some simple ways to embrace hygge in the home are lighting candles, wearing comfy and cosy loungewear and PJs, relishing in cosy nights in with good company, taking a long bath, eating mindfully or decorating with cushions and soft throws.

3. I move

Exercising might be the last thing on your mind, but it does work wonders to lift your mood and beat the post-Christmas blues! A brisk walk or jog around the block will release endorphins into your bloodstream, one of the chemicals responsible for reducing stress and anxiety and giving you an overall feel-good feeling.
Plus, it will help you get those extra kilos off! 😉

4. Eating well

It’s time to slow down the indulging. Notice I said ‘slow down’ and not ‘stop’. Dieting is a no-no, but it’s definitely time to balance. You can still eat comfort foods (which we all crave during the cold winter season), but choose them wisely. Wholesome soups, curries loaded with veg, and casseroles are all great options.
You should check out my ‘How I lost 6 kilos in 3 months without going on a diet’ and my ‘How I maintain my weight’ posts for some inspiration!

5. Chilling

Remember how you wished you had a bit of down time amidst the busy days? Parties, events and get togethers are always fun, but when you have 3 weeks bursting with the likes of them, well it can get to hectic.

The grass is always greener on the other side. Take a moment to recall the dire need for a few quiet days. Well, now you have them. So take the opportunity to take things easy. Go slow. Relish in evenings with no plans, and weekends made for doing whatever your heart desires.

6. I make plans

Whip out your diary and get planning! Organise a few fun activities, such as a family picnic, movie night, a spa day with your girlfriends, date night with your hubby, a summer holiday…the sky’s the limit!

If all else fails…go shopping ? ?

Seriously though, religiously following steps 1 to 6 above will most definitely help you beat the post-Christmas blues in no time!

Happy Friday mamas!

Nakita xxx