post-holiday reset blog
Dec 18 2025

Post-Holiday RESET: Bounce Back & Thrive!

Written By Emily Littlejohn, MS, RD, LD
post-holiday reset blog
Summary

Bounce back from holiday indulgence and thrive in the New Year with simple RESET strategies.

The holidays are a whirlwind of celebration and, let’s be honest, indulgence.

If you’re feeling a little sluggish, weighed down or just out of sorts, you are not alone. 

After all the busyness and heavy foods, here are some tips to help you bounce back and RESET after the holidays to help you feel your best! 
 

R - Refuel 

Try to choose real foods like lean proteins and green vegetables to lighten you up and fuel your energy. Traditional holiday treats are typically higher in fat, sugar and flavor but often low in the nutrients that enhance energy.  In fact, constant consumption of high sugar and carb foods actually zaps energy levels and leaves you craving more. So, balancing meals with protein and vegetables can help keep you jolly all season long and after!

E - Exhale the guilt - no spiraling

Try to avoid feeling guilty for indulging in holiday goodies. Often, feeling guilty about eating “more than we should,” can cause us to spiral and end up overdoing more. It is easy to get into the all-or-nothing mentality and think “I will just start over Monday (or in the new year).” However, this thinking often sets us up for self-sabotage, making it harder to make healthier choices or limit sweets and treats. 

 

S - Sip & Sleep 

Hydration and rest are your holiday recovery superpowers. Energy slumps may be caused by not getting enough water, which helps every function in your body.  Aim for eight (8 oz.) glasses of water and seven to eight hours of sleep each night. These habits boost energy levels, curb cravings and help control hunger. 

 

E - Eat Mindfully 

Eating mindfully is one of the best ways to enjoy your food more and eat less. Avoid distracted or mindless eating, like eating while working, watching TV, scrolling or driving. Instead, focus on flavors, textures and the company around you.

 

T - Take a walk 

Cooler weather often makes us want to hibernate, but movement is a mood and energy booster. Try to incorporate additional five to 10 minutes of activity throughout your day!

RESET to re-energize and feel your best in the New Year.

 
Emily Littlejohn, MS, RD, LD
Emily Littlejohn, MS, RD, LD
Meet the author

Emily Littlejohn, MS, RD, LD

Emily Littlejohn, MS, RD, LD, is a registered dietitian with NMMC’s Population Health Department. Emily holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in food and nutrition services from the University of Mississippi. She offers nutrition counseling by appointment at the NMMC Wellness Center in Tupelo. Call (662) 377-7803 for more information.

Eat Well

Nutrition plays a key role in health, healing and living a well-balanced life. Whether you need support for special dietary concerns or simply want to eat more healthfully, we can help.

Call (662) 377-7803 to request nutrition counseling.

Notepad-Text--Streamline-Flex

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Like this content and want to get more? Sign up for True North, the health and wellness newsletter from North Mississippi Health Services!

Notepad-Text--Streamline-Flex

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Like this content and want to get more? Sign up for True North, the health and wellness newsletter from North Mississippi Health Services!

woman in a pink dress talks on the phone while cuddling her young daughter on a bench at the end of a bed

Nurse Link®

Not sure if you need Urgent Care or the ER? Call 1-800-882-6274 anytime to speak directly to a registered nurse and get immediate answers. Using computerized medical protocols, nurses direct callers to the most appropriate treatment. Our nurses are available 24 hours per day, seven days per week.