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Best Ways to Recover from Post-Holiday Burnout

Jan 8, 2026

Whew, the holidays are over. Now what?

Holiday stress doesn’t just disappear on January 1st. In fact, over 50% of Americans say it takes them weeks to feel less stressed after the holiday season.

Make the most of your new year. Learn the common symptoms of post-holiday burnout, the top four ways to recover, and when your symptoms may mean something more serious.

Why should you care about post-holiday burnout?

Holiday burnout is a very real form of physical and emotional exhaustion that results from the demands and expectations of the holiday season. The first step to managing burnout is recognizing what it looks and feels like:

  • Physical effects – The holiday season can take a toll on your body. Common signs include headaches, muscle tension, heartburn, and digestive issues.
  • Altered schedule – A packed schedule can force you to make sacrifices in key areas of your routine. Be aware when your activities start to affect your healthy eating habits, active lifestyle, and sleep patterns.
  • Emotional exhaustion – Many social commitments in a short period of time can lead to stress, anxiety, irritability, social withdrawal, and being disinterested in activities you usually enjoy.

Post-holiday burnout symptoms tend to go away once the holidays are over, so there is likely no need to seek medical attention unless your symptoms are severe or persistent.

Top four ways to recover from post-holiday burnout:

The best way to beat burnout is to take intentional actions to nurture your physical, mental and emotional health. A healthy routine often includes:

1. Healthy and balanced eating

If your holiday season was filled with excessive drinks and snacks, it may be time to return to a balanced diet:

  • Eat whole foods: Enjoy fruits, vegetables, and lean protein.
  • Avoid crash diets: These are known to slow metabolism, cause muscle loss along with fat, and can result in rebound weight gain.
  • Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out the excess of holiday indulgences. Aim for at least 11 cups per day.
  • Stay active: Start with walks or light stretching instead of intense workouts to ease your body back into a healthy exercise routine.

2. Regular sleep schedule

Rest is a key way to recover from post-holiday burnout. As you return to school or work, try these sleep tips:

  • Go to bed and wake up at consistent times, even on weekends.
  • Keep your bedroom dark, cool, and quiet. Use blackout curtains or a white noise machine to block out light and noise.
  • Turn off all screens at least one hour before bedtime.
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol for at least four hours before bed.

3. Mentally recharge

It’s perfectly normal to need a break after the holidays. Invest time in yourself to ensure you have the energy to take care of yourself and others:

  • Set firm boundaries and decline any non-essential invitations. Try to avoid overcommitting yourself and be realistic about what you can handle.
  • Relax and unwind by listening to music, reading a book or practicing mindfulness.
  • Reset for the new year by organizing your living space and managing your finances.

4. Make time for what you love

The holiday season can be busy but may not have been filled with the people or hobbies you usually enjoy. Fill your cup:

  • Spend time with family and friends whose company makes you smile.
  • Engage in hobbies or activities that are entertaining or inspire you.
  • Did you love the cuisine from a previous vacation? Cook a recipe that reminds you of your trip.
  • Go outside and connect with nature (weather permitting).

Anticipation is known to be a powerful mood booster! Plan the next thing to look forward to, like a special dinner or concert to help boost your spirits.

Most of us tend to overindulge during the holidays. Real recovery comes when you prioritize your health and self-care accordingly.

When to seek help

If your physical symptoms linger or worsen, such as persistent fatigue, upset stomach, or cold/flu-like symptoms, visit your nearest vybe urgent care location for diagnosis and treatment. vybe is open 7 days a week with extended hours. Walk in or schedule an appointment today!

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About vybe

vybe urgent care is Philadelphia’s leading independent urgent care provider delivering care to adults and children throughout the Philadelphia region. Open 7 days a week, vybe is an affordable and convenient alternative to long emergency room wait times and the limited hours of family physicians. vybe welcomes walk-ins, but appointments are available for your convenience. vybe accepts major insurance and Medicaid plans and offers full urgent care services, such as illness and injury treatment, digital x-rays, EKGs, lab testing, physicals, immunizations, and occupational medicine. vybe is fully accredited by the Urgent Care Association (UCA), which is the highest level of distinction for urgent care centers and ensures high levels of patient safety and quality. Find the medical care you need with the convenience you want at vybe urgent care locations throughout the Philadelphia area.