Don't Just Survive, Thrive: 12 Simple Steps to Conquer Holiday Fatigue

7. Plan Recovery Time

Make recovery part of your schedule. After social events or travel, book intentional downtime that lets your system recharge. Recovery can be micro—ten minutes of deep breathing and a walk between activities—or macro, like a half-day to sleep in and read. Think of recovery as the reward for giving of yourself; it replenishes your patience for the next gathering. When planning travel, build in buffer days at each end of the trip to decompress rather than sprinting from one event to another. Use recovery days for low-effort pleasures: warm baths, favorite podcasts, or quiet kitchen time. Treat recovery as nonnegotiable. By scheduling it, you prevent exhaustion from accumulating and keep your energy steady across the whole season.

8. Maintain Nutrition Basics

Food fuels mood, so keeping basic nutrition steady matters. Start the day with protein and fiber to reduce mid-day energy dips—eggs, yogurt with fruit, or oatmeal with nuts work well. Aim for colorful vegetables at at least one meal, and include lean protein to stabilize blood sugar and mood. Hydration is often overlooked; carry a water bottle during outings and sip throughout the day. When treats appear, enjoy them in modest portions without labeling them "off limits." If parties offer heavy options, balance the plate with a salad or broth-based soup first. Meals don’t need to be rigid to be supportive. Small steady choices help reduce that tired, foggy feeling that sneaks in after a stretch of sugar, alcohol, and interrupted sleep. Keeping a light, balanced approach means you can enjoy holiday flavors while staying energized.