The holidays: a glittering carousel of parties, dinners, and traditions that often leaves us exhilarated, exhausted, or both. By the time January rolls around, the festive glow can give way to lingering stress, financial strain, and disrupted routines. Finding calm after the chaos might feel like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be.
Artemis Mian, an Iranian, Dubai-based yoga instructor and face yoga expert, explains why post-holiday stress can feel so heavy. “The root of much stress lies in neglecting ourselves and failing to prioritise our personal needs. During the holidays, we’re often caught up in doing things for others - family, friends, colleagues, and we lose sight of our own well-being.” Her advice? Start small, love yourself first, and don’t apologise for taking the time you need to reset.
One of the simplest ways to regain balance is by reestablishing routine. The holidays have a way of throwing life off balance with late nights, indulgent meals, and unpredictable schedules, leaving both body and mind craving stability. Rebuilding a rhythm, even in small steps, can work wonders. Reclaiming a consistent sleep schedule, preparing meals that nourish rather than deplete, and incorporating moments of gentle movement like yoga or walking can all help reset your system. Artemis emphasises the importance of even small actions, saying, “Even 10 minutes of stretching or yoga can help release tension in your body and mind. These moments of movement reconnect you with yourself, which is so important after the holiday rush.”
Face yoga, she notes, is a particularly effective way to both relax and recharge. it’s a way to release the tension stored in the body - specifically the face, while embracing a sense of calm. “Dedicating just 10 minutes a day to face yoga enhances peace and self-value. This small daily habit reminds you of your worth and significantly reduces the pressures of daily life while strengthening your connection with yourself,” Artemis explains. Simple techniques like gently massaging the jawline can release tension from clenching, a common stress response. Using upward strokes across the forehead smooths tight muscles while relaxing stress lines. Massaging the neck and shoulders provides relief from the physical burden of holiday chaos, helping melt away tension carried over from the season.
Combining these movements with intentional, deep breathing takes the practice to another level. “When paired with deep abdominal breathing, face yoga doesn’t just relieve tension in your face - it calms your entire nervous system,” Artemis adds. “You’ll feel lighter, more centred, and ready to navigate the post-holiday period with ease.”
Another way to regain your calm is by decluttering your space. For many, the chaos of the holidays leaves a trail of decorations, wrapping paper, and general disarray. Cleaning up may feel like a chore at first, but it has a transformative effect. Tackling one space at a time allows you to ease into the process without feeling overwhelmed.
Financial stress is another common holiday hangover. After weeks of gift-giving, celebratory meals, and other festive expenses, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by money matters. The key is to face it head-on. Reviewing holiday spending and creating a realistic plan for recovery can take the edge off. Meanwhile, discovering low-cost joys like journaling, meditating, or simply walking in nature can help you unwind without adding strain to your wallet.
The post-holiday season is also a good time to reconnect with yourself through gratitude. The holidays often focus on others, but now is your moment to turn inward. A simple practice like gratitude journaling can reframe your mindset and help you focus on the positives. Reflect on what brought you joy during the season and what you’re looking forward to in the new year.
It’s tempting to use January as a launchpad for lofty resolutions, but the pressure to reinvent yourself can feel crushing. Instead of setting overwhelming goals, Artemis recommends focusing on kind, realistic intentions. “When we choose to love ourselves and make ourselves a priority, stress and fatigue naturally decrease. This mindset empowers us to say ‘no’ when needed and to live for ourselves, not the approval of others.” Small acts of self-love like prioritising rest, carving out time for self-care, or committing to even 15 minutes of quiet each day - can create a ripple effect that leads to a more grounded and peaceful year ahead.
The post-holiday period is an invitation to slow down, reset, and care for yourself. Whether it’s through mindful face yoga, creating a simple routine, or embracing gratitude, small, intentional actions can help you leave the chaos behind. “The more we prioritise our own needs, the more peaceful and confident we feel,” Artemis says. “Taking time for ourselves isn’t selfish - it's essential.”
So, this January, don’t rush forward. Breathe, unwind, and embrace the calm you deserve. The holidays may be over, but your chance to recharge is just beginning.
