So the holidays are over, and you finally have a minute to breathe…and there it is. That weird feeling I call the post-holiday blues. After all the hustle and bustle of preparing for the season (and attending the five million parties), you and your family are suddenly back to normal, everyday life.
Almost everyone experiences post-holiday blues to some extent (kids and adults alike), so here are a few tips for perking your life up a bit after the holidays.
One aspect of the post-holiday blues is seasonal depression, so if you find you just can’t kick those feelings, make sure to talk to your doctor.
1. Reflect and give thanks.
It’s super hard to feel down when you’re counting your blessings. As a family, take turns sharing your favorite part about the holiday season. Reminiscing and laughing about funny memories is so good for the soul. Go around the table so everyone has a turn, and then go around again! You’ll be surprised at what they come up with.
Then, give everyone a chance to share what they are thankful for. It can be anything: an experience, a person, health, a gift they received, etc. This will absolutely turn the attitude of the household around from blue and listless to happy and thankful.
2. Make a plan for the new year.
I’m a planning person, and I get a kick out of having a plan for the new year (and for everything, really; it’s a problem). The new year is a perfect time to do some future-planning. Perhaps you want to take a fun summer vacation; get started on the planning process now! Or maybe you need to renovate your bathroom; do the legwork now so you aren’t as stressed when the time comes to actually do it.
Additionally, setting goals is a really great way to kick the post-holiday blues. And it’s not only good for adults! I’ve found that kids like having a goal to work towards, too.
3. Get out of the house.
As tempting as it may be to stay in your nice warm house when it’s freezing outside, make a point to get out as a family. I know, I hate the cold as much as (let’s be honest, probably more than) the next person, but getting out is necessary. And running errands doesn’t count; you have to do those anyway! I’m talking about doing something fun like going to the park, seeing a dollar movie, or visiting one of our awesome museums. The ABQ BioPark has some fun winter events, too!
4. Try a new recipe.
Does anyone else ever get tired of making the same thing over and over? I feel like I do that a lot in the winter for some reason. Kick the post-holiday blues by trying a new recipe, or even resurrecting a holiday favorite (mashed potatoes anyone?). And unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that Pinterest is a treasure-trove of delicious dishes to try. But if you need some guidance, check out these recipes:
- Easy Crock Pot Green Chile Chicken Posole
- Overnight Oats for Busy Mornings
- Super Easy Slow Cooker Chicken Tortilla Soup
- Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas
- Venison Green Chile Alfredo
5. Get creative!
Winter is the perfect time to try out a new hobby or craft project! And seriously, don’t worry if you’re not super creative. Pinterest to the rescue, again! There are thousands of easy projects for adults, teens, kids, and toddlers. Or better yet, check out your local community center or library for arts and crafts events and classes. I’m constantly amazed at how many free or inexpensive activities are available at these places around our city.
The post-holiday blues are real, but don’t let them get you down.
Try one (or more!) of the tips we talked about today, and you’ll be surprised at how quickly those blues fade away.
And remember, always talk to your doctor or pediatrician if you or your kiddos can’t shake that seasonal depression.
