The fifth day of the Lunar New Year marks the official return to work—and for many, it also marks the beginning of the dreaded post-holiday syndrome. Feelings of anxiety, restlessness, or even sleeplessness the night before can lead to poor productivity and low morale—what some call “a worm at work, a dragon after hours.”

Dr. Wu Pei-Chuan, psychiatrist at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, shares that many patients confess their dread of returning to a mountain of deadlines after the holidays—caught between anticipation and anxiety. To help ease the transition, Dr. Wu offers 5 essential tips to reset your rhythm and get back on track:

Tip 1: Cut Down on Stimulating Activities

1–2 days before returning to work, avoid overly stimulating events. Start adjusting your mealtimes and sleep schedule to help your body gradually ease back into its usual routine.

Tip 2: Try Gentle Exercise

Engage in light physical activities like walking, yoga, or meditation during the day. Keep your indoor space well-lit and dehumidified to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Tip 3: Eat Light, Avoid Heavy Meals

In the final days of the holiday, shift toward lighter meals. Avoid greasy or salty dishes and midnight snacks. Eat more fruits, vegetables, and fiber-rich foods to help your body reset.

Tip 4: Relax Before Bed

Unwind with soft music, breathing exercises, or a warm bath. Natural essential oils like lavender, bergamot, neroli, or sandalwood can help calm the mind and improve sleep quality.

Tip 5: Prepare Ahead & Set Goals

Gather your supplies, organize your documents, and plan your first workday. A clear to-do list can help reduce stress and ease the transition back to a productive routine.

Dr. Lee Yao-Tung from the Department of Psychiatry and Psychosomatic Medicine at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital also reminds that after the Lunar New Year, many people may feel unmotivated or easily fatigued when returning to work. Proper adjustments to sleep routines and diet can help quickly restore one’s physical and mental state. In terms of diet, it is advised to avoid heavy and greasy foods and instead choose light, easily digestible options such as porridge, soups, or steamed vegetables. Incorporating regular exercise—about 30 minutes a day—can help boost metabolism and revitalize energy. Before returning to work, ensure 7 to 8 hours of quality sleep each night and take some time to calmly reflect and set short-term goals for the new year to start it off with clear direction.

Dr. Lee emphasizes that “moderation” is the key to staying healthy during the festive season. Amidst the excitement of the holidays, it’s important to occasionally “hit the brakes” for yourself—so you can enjoy the celebrations while avoiding health setbacks. If, about a month after the holidays, you still feel physically or mentally unwell or experience anxiety and restlessness, it is recommended to seek professional consultation from a psychiatric or psychosomatic medicine department.

(Source: SET News)