BACK TO ROUTINE AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

28 Aug BACK TO ROUTINE AFTER THE HOLIDAYS

Getting back to healthy habits doesn’t mean making a drastic change overnight. 

If you try to get back to your 100% routine right away, you’re likely to feel overwhelmed, find it difficult and end up giving up quickly. Ideally, you should set small goals that will allow you to get back into those habits. For example, if you stopped exercising, start with short sessions and gradually increase the duration and intensity.

Holidays are a valuable time to relax and disconnect from daily responsibilities. However, getting back into a routine, especially healthy habits, can seem challenging. 

From a coaching perspective, it is essential to approach this process in a structured and positive way, so that the transition is not only effective, but also sustainable over time. 

The first thing to remember is that enjoying the holidays is positive and necessary. Don’t feel bad about indulging yourself or getting more rest than usual. It is important to understand that these days of disconnection are also part of a balanced lifestyle. So instead of feeling guilty, focus on the benefits of the break: it allowed you to recharge and clear your mind. There will be days when you feel motivated and others when you find it harder, and that’s completely normal. The most important thing is to be consistent and kind to yourself.

Sleep is a fundamental part of a healthy lifestyle, and during the holidays, it’s easy to lose your rhythm. To get back into the routine, try to regulate your sleep schedule as soon as possible. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. This will help you regain your energy and improve your productivity.

But what is really important is to connect with the personal values that drive your actions. Reflect on why it is important for you to return to your healthy habits – is it to feel more energetic, to take care of your wellbeing in the long run? Being clear about the ‘why’ behind your actions will help you stay motivated, even at times when the process feels difficult.

Another key guideline for getting back on track is to set specific, achievable goals. Instead of trying to resume all your habits at once, set progressive goals. For example, if you want to return to exercise, you might set an initial goal of 20 minutes of physical activity three times a week, rather than immediately trying to return to a daily one-hour routine. This gradual approach is not only more manageable, but also increases the likelihood of long-term success.

In re-engaging in each healthy habit, planning is essential. Therefore, defining an action plan that includes concrete steps to re-engage in each habit can be helpful, such as starting a new diary or using apps to organise your activities, making sure to set aside specific time for exercise, healthy meal preparation, social life and rest. In addition, a well-structured plan should be flexible, allowing you to make adjustments according to your needs and circumstances.

Mindfulness is a powerful tool for reconnecting with your healthy habits. Take a few minutes a day to meditate, practice mindful breathing or simply be present in the moment. This not only reduces stress, but also allows you to make more conscious decisions about your health. Self-care is also crucial; include mentally, emotionally and physically nourishing activities in your daily routine.

And finally, if you feel you need an extra push to get back to your healthy habits, don’t hesitate to seek support. Involve friends, family or colleagues who share your goals, or even find a health professional to guide you through the process. Having someone with you along the way can make all the difference and help you stay focused.

Returning to healthy habits after the holidays is an opportunity to refocus your energies and take back control of your wellbeing. With a positive approach and small steps, you’ll soon be back on your way to a healthy and balanced lifestyle!

Remember, the road to healthy living is a continuous journey, and each step you take brings you closer to your goals. Plus, the Benefit Brokers team is with you, we want to be there to celebrate every step with you.

María Kindelán