The holidays have finally wrapped up, and with them, all the excitement and joy we had been looking forward to for months. We very meticulously and happily (might I add) wrote our leave emails, planned our festive celebrations, and munched on chakali and sweets (Kaju Katli if you were lucky, or else we all know it was just filled with Soan Papdi!) Now that we’re back in the office this week, it’s tough not to feel a little down. I totally get it — believe me! I had an amazing holiday with my family, and for the first time ever, we actually got along without any arguments. We laughed, explored new places, and made some wonderful memories together. But now that we’re back to our routines, the sudden quiet of returning to our empty flats after leaving our loved ones can feel pretty overwhelming.
If you’ve felt a wave of loneliness or sadness wash over you after your recent Diwali vacation, you’re not alone. What you’re experiencing is often referred to as “post-holiday blues.” While it may not be a clinical term, the feelings are undeniably real. But don’t worry! I’ve gathered some tips that can help you navigate through this challenging transition. Have I tried them? Yes, and I’m still in the process of implementing them. Are they effective? Well, we can all try them and find out together over the week.
Tip One: Get Some Good Rest
The first step upon returning is to prioritise rest. Even if you feel relaxed during your vacation, the excitement of festivals and celebrations can leave you feeling drained. So, sleep as much as you need! Don’t forget to stay hydrated; it will help you adjust to any weather changes and combat fatigue.
Tip Two: Unpack and Organise
I know it might seem like a daunting task after all the cleaning we did for Diwali, but unpacking your luggage and organising your space can work wonders for your mental state. A cluttered environment can lead to stress, so take some time to clear out your bags, tidy your room, change your sheets and pillowcases, and organise your kitchen — especially those leftover sweets and snacks! A clean space will help you feel lighter and more refreshed.
Tip Three: Take Breaks
As you ease back into work, start with manageable tasks on your to-do list. Keep it small and achievable. Remember to take regular breaks while working; don’t push yourself to work for hours on end without pause. Engage in light conversations with colleagues about their holidays; sharing stories can alleviate work-related stress and help combat feelings of loneliness.
Tip Four: Engage in Your Hobbies
Engage in enjoyable activities like cooking, baking, or reading whenever you start feeling bored or lonely. Consider picking up a new hobby or starting a DIY project that can occupy your time for the week. While I do not recommend doom-scrolling through social media, if watching funny videos helps distract you from post-holiday blues, then go ahead — but remember not to overdo it! You could also binge-watch a series in your favourite genre and discuss it with friends or family over calls. Amidst all these activities, make sure to carve out some time for meditation; it can help you relax after a busy holiday season while also restoring focus at work.
Tip Five: Plan the Next Holiday
Finally, one of the most effective ways to combat those post-holiday blues is by planning your next trip! Mark tentative dates on your calendar and choose a destination that excites you. This anticipation will lift your spirits and provide something wonderful to look forward to as you transition back into everyday life.
Returning from a festive holiday can indeed feel overwhelming as we shift back into our routines. However, following these tips can ease the transition and bring some joy back into your daily life. Remember that it’s perfectly okay to feel this way after such vibrant celebrations; give yourself grace as you adjust back into the rhythm of everyday life!
