“Sleighing the Exhaustion”

Holiday Fatigue

The holidays are supposed to be filled with wonder and magic. But just like Oz behind the curtain, it’s usually the women frantically pulling levers, juggling lists, and whisper‑yelling “DON’T TOUCH THAT YET” while everyone else marvels at the Christmas sparkle. What’s meant to be a relaxing season can feel more like an endurance sport — minus the medal.

Why does holiday fatigue happen? Because the moment December hits (and for some people the day after Thanksgiving), our normal routines pack their bags and leave. Sure, you may have time off work, but that doesn’t mean you’re lounging in fuzzy socks watching Hallmark movies. No, you’re shopping, decorating, planning menus, coordinating travel, and managing the emotional thermostat of the entire household. The magic doesn’t make itself — though wouldn’t that be nice.

All that seasonal hustle takes a toll. Suddenly you’re exhausted, stiff, not sleeping well, forgetting words like “hydration,” and wondering why your body feels like it’s been wrapped in twinkle lights too tightly. Spoiler: it’s because your sleep is off, your meals are irregular, sugar has become its own food group, and your movement consists of “reaching for things on high shelves.”

How do you rebound? By giving yourself the same care you give your holiday décor.– Prioritize sleep (yes, even if the tree is slightly crooked).– Choose nourishing snacks that aren’t shaped like reindeer.– Go easy on alcohol and caffeine — your nervous system is already doing the most.– Move gently: stretching, walking, or just standing up slowly like a Victorian ghost.– Drink water like it’s part of the tradition.– Take intentional pauses to breathe.– Create a wind‑down routine so your brain knows it’s time to stop jingling.

How do you avoid the trap next year? Start by being honest about what you actually enjoy. If holiday prep doesn’t spark joy, give yourself permission to simplify. A “simple Christmas” is not a failure — it’s a strategy.

If you do love the hustle but want to avoid the crash, plan earlier, say “no” with grace (or without — either works), manage expectations, delegate tasks, and protect your healthy routines like they’re heirloom ornaments.

I love the hustle and bustle too, but the older I get, the more I appreciate the beauty of cutting back. And here’s the truth: scaling down isn’t a lack of love or magic. It’s a gift to yourself — the gift of actually enjoying the season you worked so hard to create.