After the Feast: Recovering from Holiday Overload & Emotional Hangovers

Jessica Serre
Oct 15
2 min read

Thanksgiving is often a time of connection, gratitude, and indulgence—but once the dishes are cleared and the guests have gone, many people are left feeling… off. Whether it’s physical fatigue, emotional heaviness, or a sense of post-holiday letdown, these feelings are real and valid.

Let’s explore what causes emotional hangovers after major holidays, and how to gently support your body and mind in the days that follow.

What Is an Emotional Hangover?

An emotional hangover isn’t just about stress—it’s the lingering effect of intense emotional experiences, whether joyful, overwhelming, or complicated. According to researchers at UC Berkeley, emotional events can leave a measurable imprint on the brain for hours or even days, affecting memory, mood, and energy levels.

After a holiday, this might look like:

Feeling drained or irritable
Difficulty concentrating or sleeping
A sense of emptiness or sadness
Physical tension or digestive discomfort
Guilt or regret over food, interactions, or expectations

These reactions are common, especially when holidays involve family dynamics, social overstimulation, or disrupted routines.

Why Thanksgiving Hits Differently

Thanksgiving blends emotional intensity with physical indulgence. It’s a day of:

High social interaction (especially for introverts)
Rich, heavy meals that can affect digestion and mood
Family expectations and emotional triggers
Disrupted sleep and routines
Reflection and nostalgia, which can stir up grief or longing

Even when the day is beautiful, the aftermath can feel like a crash—especially if you’ve been “on” for hours or days.

Gentle Ways to Recover

You don’t need to fix anything—you just need to reset. Here are some supportive strategies to help you recalibrate:

1. Hydrate & Nourish

Drink plenty of water to support digestion and flush out excess sodium or sugar
Choose simple, grounding meals like soups, steamed veggies, or herbal teas

2. Move Your Body

Gentle movement (walking, stretching, yoga) helps release tension and boost endorphins
Avoid intense workouts—focus on restoration, not punishment

3. Rest & Reset

Prioritize sleep and quiet time
Take a break from screens and social media to reduce stimulation

4. Reflect Without Judgment

Journal or talk through your feelings without trying to “solve” them
Acknowledge any emotional residue with compassion

5. Reconnect with Routine

Re-establish your daily rhythm: meals, movement, work, and rest
Routine helps regulate cortisol and stabilize mood

6. Try Reflexology or Bodywork

Reflexology supports the nervous system and encourages parasympathetic activation (rest and digest)
Cupping or massage can ease physical tension and promote circulation

Holidays are meaningful—but they’re also intense. If you’re feeling off after Thanksgiving, you’re not alone. With gentle care, movement, and reflection, you can ease the emotional hangover and return to your rhythm. At Serenite Wellness, we’re here to support your whole self—before, during, and after the season.