5 Tips to Overcoming the Unseen Side of Festive Joy: those Post-Holiday Blues
With the holiday season upon us, it's a time for celebration, gratitude, and often, reflection. On this episode of Holly's Highlight, we delved into the rich history and traditions of Thanksgiving, followed by a deeper discussion on post-holiday blues.
Thanksgiving, a cherished national holiday, is not only about the iconic turkey and the cherished family gatherings, but it also holds an intriguing history. For instance, Sarah Joseph-A-Hale, also known as the author of 'Mary Had a Little Lamb', was instrumental in making Thanksgiving a national holiday. She sought the holiday as a means to bring healing to a nation devastated by the Civil War. It's also fascinating to learn that 'Jingle Bells' was initially a Thanksgiving day song and that the first Thanksgiving menu didn't even include turkey!
However, as the holiday high subsides, many of us experience a sense of melancholy, a phenomenon commonly referred to as post-event or post-holiday blues. It's that low feeling that follows the euphoria of a major event, celebration, or project. It is not uncommon and affects people across different occupations, especially those involved in event planning, professional athletes, actors, and musicians.
Understanding the biological and psychological reasons behind these post-event blues is crucial for managing them effectively. Biologically, it's an abrupt withdrawal of stress hormones as we step away from a stressful environment. Psychologically, it's often a mental struggle of not knowing what to do once the event has ended.
Overcoming post-event blues involves various strategies, such as ensuring adequate rest and maintaining a balanced social calendar. Rest allows our bodies to recuperate from the stress of planning and executing an event. Meanwhile, a balanced social calendar ensures we stay connected and avoid feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Planning new events is another effective strategy. It provides something to look forward to and helps to alleviate the feeling of emptiness post-event. Documenting and sharing our experiences can also serve as a therapeutic exercise. It helps to reflect on the fun times, the memories made, and the blessings received.
Lastly, practicing gratitude is a powerful antidote to post-event blues. Regularly counting our blessings can enhance our happiness, reduce stress, and improve our relationships. So, as we navigate the holiday season and the inevitable post-event blues, let's remember to embrace gratitude and celebrate each moment.
In conclusion, understanding the history and traditions of Thanksgiving and acknowledging the reality of post-event blues enables us to fully enjoy the holiday season while being prepared for the emotional downturn. By implementing practical strategies, we can effectively navigate this emotional rollercoaster and make the most of this festive season.