The lights that used to shine and glow in different colors are now turned off and removed from the roofs of houses.

The beautiful tree that was neatly decorated with various types of ornaments is now empty and bare. The presents that were sitting under it were all unwrapped, with the paper, boxes, and gift bags recycled or thrown in the trash.

Even the snow covering the ground is melting and turning into a dirty, icy mush. The holidays are usually a time of rest, relaxation, and fun with loved ones, and they slip by too quickly.

But now that the holidays are over, you’re feeling too much like the Christmas decorations that are now packed away, ready to be used again at the end of this next year.

Here’s how to deal with depression after the holidays.

Prioritize Your Sleep

During the holidays, it can be easy to dismiss your own needs. You may feel obligated to change up your schedule or routine to hang out with loved ones or attend gatherings and special events. As a result, your sleep can suffer. After the holidays, it’s important to prioritize your sleep again. You should be aiming for at least eight hours of sleep each night. Try to go to bed around the same time each night and wake up around the same time each morning so your body naturally falls into a good routine again.

Eat a Balanced Diet

Taking care of yourself doesn’t just mean your sleep. This also includes things like your diet and nutrition. During the holidays, you may have indulged in holiday meals, treats, and alcoholic drinks that you don’t normally consume. Get your nutrition back on track by making a grocery list, going grocery shopping, and meal prepping your meals for the week. Try to eat a healthy and well-balanced diet filled with proteins, carbohydrates, and healthy fats. While everything is okay in moderation, eating well can make you feel better from the inside out.

Move Your Body

A lot of people know that exercise is good for your body, but did you know that it’s also beneficial for your brain and overall mental health and wellness? Moving your body can naturally reduce stress as well as increase your mood. You can find ways that you enjoy moving your body, too. Go for a walk outside, hit up a hiking trail with a friend, or roll out a yoga mat in the comfort of your own home. Find what works best for you and aim for at least thirty minutes each day.

Practice Mindfulness Techniques

The holidays can bring a lot of different feelings, some positive and some negative. Try to get out of your own head by practicing mindfulness techniques. These types of techniques can help bring you back to the present moment and help keep you grounded. Here are a few of the different mindfulness techniques that you can try out and have ready for the next time you find yourself feeling a little down or stressed out:

• Body scan
• Deep breathing
• Meditation
• Write in a journal
• Yoga

Seek Additional Support

If you’re still feeling a little down and not yourself after the holidays, you’re not alone. Seasonal depression is extremely common this time of year. In addition, a lot of people can experience feelings of sadness or depression after the holidays are over and they have to return back to the “real world” again. If you need a little extra help returning back to your life post-holidays, we’re here to help. Reach out to us today to set up a consultation.