Are you experiencing holiday burnout?

The holidays are supposed to be a time of joy, connection, and celebration—but for many of us, the season often comes with a side of stress, over-commitment, and exhaustion. Between the endless to-do lists, late-night parties, and pressure to make everything perfect, it’s no surprise that holiday burnout can creep in.

But here’s the good news: You don’t have to run on empty to enjoy the festivities. With a mix of intentional self-care, expert-backed advice from counselling psychologist Sohini Rohra, and mindful practices, you can reset your energy and step into the new year refreshed. Here’s how.

Prioritise rest like It’s on your calendar

The hustle and bustle of the season can leave you feeling wiped out. Treat rest as a non-negotiable. Schedule downtime the same way you’d schedule a holiday party. Whether it’s a 20-minute nap, reading a good book, or practising mindfulness, carving out time to recharge is essential. Sohini recommends combatting holiday fatigue, begin with a gentle evening routine. Try gratitude affirmations, journaling, and yoga nidra to relax your body and improve sleep hygiene.

Pro Tip: Stick to a wind-down routine before bed—put away your phone, dim the lights, and sip on herbal tea for deeper sleep. For an added layer of calm, try a rich nighttime moisturiser like Laneige Water Sleeping Mask to hydrate your skin while you rest.

 

Say yes to boundaries, no to burnout

The truth is, you can’t (and shouldn’t) say yes to everything. Politely declining invitations or delegating tasks can help you reclaim your time and energy. Practice saying things like, “I’d love to, but I’ve got a lot on my plate right now. Let’s catch up after the holidays!”

Sohini's Tip: If burnout has already hit, start your day with the 3-2-1 method: three small tasks, two medium tasks, and one significant one. This low-pressure approach helps you ease back into productivity without overwhelming yourself.

Fuel your body for the festivities

Holiday treats are tempting, but overindulging can leave you feeling sluggish. Strike a balance by including nutrient-packed meals that energise you. Think leafy greens, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

Pro Tip: Keep a stash of healthy snacks like mixed nuts or granola bars in your bag for when you’re on the go. And don’t forget to hydrate—drinking water can work wonders for both your energy and your skin. For a quick pick-me-up, spritz on a hydrating facial mist like Caudalie Beauty Elixir Mist during those long shopping trips.

Add a dash of mindful movement

Feeling frazzled? Take a moment to reconnect with your body through yoga or gentle stretching. Mindful breathing combined with gentle stretching can work wonders for releasing tension and calming your mind. Take a few moments to focus on deep, steady breaths while incorporating simple stretches to ease tight muscles and reset your energy.

Sohini’s Insight: Kickstart your day with 10 minutes of breathwork, meditation, and affirmations. These practices align your mind and body, creating a calming foundation for the rest of the day.

If you want to make movement a habit, invest in a stylish yoga mat—sometimes all it takes is the right tool to stay motivated!

Reframe the "perfect holiday" mindset

Sometimes, burnout comes from trying to meet unrealistic expectations. Remember: The best moments are often the simplest ones. Instead of aiming for Instagram-worthy decor or flawless family dinners, focus on what truly matters—spending quality time with loved ones and creating meaningful memories.

Expert Tip: Mini-hourly escapes—like a short walk, mindful breathing, or even a quiet cup of tea—can help you decompress and refocus during busy days.

Take a break from social media

Scrolling through picture-perfect holiday posts can add to the pressure. Give yourself permission to unplug. Use that time to go for a walk, listen to music, or have an uninterrupted conversation with a friend.

If FOMO is creeping in, try journaling in your planner by The Bombay Lettering Co. Reflect on the year and jot down things you’re excited about for 2025—it’s a great way to shift your focus inward and find gratitude.

 

Pamper yourself with skincare

Self-care doesn’t have to be complicated. A few minutes of skincare can feel like a mini spa day. Indulge in a rich moisturiser like Aqualogica’s Milk Fluid Moisturiser to lock in hydration during the chilly season. Pair it with a gentle face massage using a gua sha to release facial tension and boost circulation. For an extra glow, try a holiday-themed sheet mask before a big event—it’s like a festive treat for your skin.

Practise gratitude daily

Amid the chaos, it’s easy to forget the magic of the season. Take a moment each day to reflect on what you’re grateful for. Whether it’s a warm cup of cocoa, laughter with friends, or just a quiet moment to yourself, focusing on gratitude can help shift your perspective.

Sohini’s Suggestion: Keep a gratitude journal and jot down three things you’re thankful for each day. Pair this with evening walks and affirmations to end your day on a positive, peaceful note.

This holiday season, give yourself the gift of balance and self-care. With the right mindset, a few intentional habits, and some carefully chosen products, you’ll be ready to fully embrace the joy and warmth this time of year has to offer.

Happy Holidays—and happy recharging!

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