How to Get Back on Track After St. Patrick's Bank Holiday

The St. Patrick's bank holiday has just wrapped up, and wasn't it a great time? Between the parades, wearing our finest green attire, and enjoying a few pints, we all had a wonderful time celebrating our Irish heritage. And let's not forget the Six Nations Rugby Championship finale, where our boys in green claimed the Grand Slam with a triumphant victory over England! It's no wonder that the atmosphere in town was electric, with so many reasons to raise a glass in celebration.

Now, it's only natural that after all the fun, some of us might be feeling a wee bit overwhelmed as we start a new week. Overindulging in food, drink, and spending can leave us feeling out of sorts, but don't let it weigh you down. You're not alone in feeling this way, and there are plenty of ways to get back on track after a big celebration.

First and foremost, don't beat yourself up about enjoying the festivities. It's all part of the craic, and what's life without a bit of fun now and then? Instead of feeling guilty, let's focus on taking positive steps forward to help us feel our best again.

Rehydrate and eat well: After a weekend of indulgence, it's essential to rehydrate by drinking plenty of water. Focus on eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to nourish your body and help it recover.

Get adequate sleep: Ensure you get enough rest to help your body recover and reset your sleep patterns. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night.

Set a budget and review your finances: If you overspent during the celebrations, take some time to review your finances, make adjustments, and create a budget for the upcoming weeks. This will help you regain control of your spending and alleviate any financial stress.

Practice mindfulness or meditation: Engaging in mindfulness practices or meditation can help you manage stress and anxiety, improve focus, and increase self-awareness. Set aside some time each day to practice mindfulness, even if it's just for a few minutes.

Connect with friends and family: Sharing your experiences and feelings with loved ones can help you process the events of the weekend and provide you with the support needed to bounce back. Get out for a walk with a pal, you always feel that bit better after a good walk. 

Set realistic goals: Establish achievable short-term goals that will help you get back on track. Breaking your goals into smaller, manageable tasks can make them feel less daunting and more attainable.

Seek professional help if needed: If you're struggling with feelings of guilt, anxiety, or depression after the holiday, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. They can provide guidance and support to help you navigate through this challenging time.

Feeling a little off-balance after a weekend of merrymaking is quite normal, and with some dedication and self-love, you'll be back to your usual self soon enough. Be patient with yourself and take positive steps to look after your overall well-being.

About the Author: Lígia Hamada | B.A. (Hons), M.A. (Psych.), M.Ps.S.I.

Lígia has been working in Ireland as a psychologist on our team since 2021. Her therapeutic approach is based on the belief that each individual has within themselves the potential for healthy development and growth. She works with the Xplore Content Team to create