Post Holiday Blues Are Real! Here’s How to Feel Normal Again

Alessandra | Posted on January 6, 2025 |

The post holiday blues are real! If you’ve been feeling down since the holidays have ended, you’re not alone. Keep reading to find out how you can get your groove back.

The post holiday blues are so real, mama!! If you’ve found yourself down, irritated, and just not feeling like yourself, you’re not alone. I’ll be totally honest, I’ve been feeling this way too, which is why I decided to write this blog! This time of year can feel weird and emotional. And if you’re wondering why you feel weird after a holiday you’ll want to keep reading. Let’s find out why you might be feeling the post holiday blues and what you can do about it to start feeling like yourself again!

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Post Holiday Blues

The decorations are down (probably), the holiday treats are gone, and now you’re staring at your to-do list like it personally betrayed you. If you’re feeling a little “blah” after the whirlwind of the holiday season, I’m glad you’re here because we’re going to deep dive into why you’re feeling this way! The post holiday blues are a real thing, and they hit hard. But don’t worry, we’re going to talk about what this funk is, why it happens, and most importantly, how to shake it off.

**I’m not a doctor and this is not meant to be medical advice, this is my experience only.

What Are the Post Holiday Blues?

First things first, what even is the post holiday blues? Have you heard of them before? Let me know in the comment section below! Anyway, the post-holiday blues are that slump you feel once all the holiday magic disappears, and you’re left with normal, everyday life again. Sometimes that can make you go “ugh!” After weeks of excitement, socializing, and maybe even time off, returning to routine can feel… underwhelming. And as someone who loves her kids being home for school vacation, but also loves getting back to routines, I still feel this slump! Suddenly, there are no twinkly lights to admire, no cookies to bake for special occasions, and no excuse to watch cheesy holiday movies all day.

Symptoms of Post-Holiday Blues

Now that you have an idea of what those post Christmas blues are, let’s check out some common symptoms. If you’re not sure if you’re actually experiencing the post-holiday blues, here are a few tell-tale signs.

A general feeling of “meh” (the technical term, of course).
Missing the chaos of family gatherings, maybe even your loud uncle Jim you swore was too much.
Finding it hard to get back into a routine, especially if it involves waking up early.
Feeling sluggish, unmotivated, or just… bummed out. (Hi, it’s me!)
An weird craving for holiday leftovers that, unfortunately, no longer exist.

Tips to Cope with Post Holiday Blues

Ok, so you know what the blues are, you understand the symptoms and you feel like this is definitely what you’ve been dealing with over the last few days or weeks. Let’s figure out some practical ways you can cope with it all so you can start feeling normal again.

1. Ease Back Into Routine

If there’s anything I’ve learned about having kids, it’s the “cold turkey” doesn’t work. Easing back into your regular routines slowly will work way better. You don’t have to go from holiday fun to full productivity mode overnight. Give yourself grace as you reintroduce structure into your life.

2. Plan Something to Look Forward To

It seems like we spend weeks looking forward to the holidays and watching our children be super excited about Santa’s visit, only for the day to come and go in a second. But just because the holidays are over doesn’t mean you can’t have fun anymore! Try planning a cozy movie night with popcorn and pizza, a dinner with friends, or even a weekend getaway.

3. Sprinkle Some Holiday Magic Into the Everyday

If you’re up for, keep that holiday magic in the mix. I mean, who says twinkly lights have to come down right away? Keep a little bit of that festive joy around, whether it’s using your holiday mug year-round or playing Mariah Carey just one more time. You could even keep the Christmas tree up just a few more days if that’s your thing!

4. Take Care of Yourself

Take a few moments to take care of yourself. The holidays often mean indulging and obviously no regrets there, but now is a great time to prioritize good food, add a little movement into your day, and sleep. You’ll feel a whole lot better! And I’m not sure about you, but now that the holidays are over I’m feeling extra sleepy.

5. Declutter & Refresh

A little post-holiday clean up can feel oddly refreshing! Seriously, decluttering always makes me feel a whole lot better. You probably have a ton of new clothes, toys, and just “stuff” from Christmas so clear it all out. Pick up the clutter, donate what you no longer need, and start the new year with a fresh space.

Final Thoughts

The holiday season with kids is SO much fun and it’s utterly exhausting. But no one talks about how the post holiday blues can creep in and make you feel weird or sad. They are a bummer, but they don’t have to linger forever. Sit in your little holiday blues feelings for a short while, that’s totally valid, but then begin the process of moving on. With a little self care, some new things to look forward to, and a reminder that regular life isn’t all bad, you’ll be back to feeling like yourself in no time! And hey, the next holiday season is only 11 months away! Just kidding!! How do you deal with the after holidays blues? Let me know in the comments section below!

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