Recovering From Holiday Travels and Extended Family Visits

Sure, it may seem like endless planning, shopping, cooking, baking and maneuvering family visits for the holidays now, but in just one short week everyone will wonder where the holidays went.

Look ahead to those last few days off from work and school, back at home when the holiday rush subsides and consider a relaxing weekend with the family to decompress. Between the many meals, drinks and leisure time we find ourselves indulging in, there’s a lot of damage control when it’s all over.

Recover with tips from the pros:

Workout

Yes, this cliché again, but it works. Kick your own butt and inspire the family to do the same with a fun workout class. Get back into the gym routine with the promise of brunch or something fun after, or avoid the crowds entirely (don’t be surprised if the gym is busier than usual) and go for a run, long walk with the kids, practice yoga at home or head out on a bike ride through the neighborhood. Sure, it might be chilly or inclement weather in an area near you, but all the more reason to bundle up and trudge through the elements to earn a hot chocolate back at the house. It’s a great way to sweat out some toxins and work off some frustrations from the mixed bag of family gatherings.

Self Help

Read a good book, something uplifting and full of encouragement, like You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero. This series of everyday stories and optimism is relatable, inspiring and may make easing back into reality easier. Check out more from famous self-help heroes here and shake off any lingering negative energy.

Have a Chill Day

Give yourself some time from returning from family gatherings and holiday travels to relax before diving back into work. Whether you get the full day or a few hours depends on your schedule, but winding down with some music is completely up to you. Take charge of the chaos and unpack, try a face mask, organize stray gifts and get the kids together to watch an old movie or holiday favorite. Try getting back into your favorite hobbies with some quiet time.

Making the most of your personal time and quality time with the family is a great way to get centered before the rush of reality. That’s what Mondays are for.