Holidays are meant for relaxation. But they can leave you feeling more drained than refreshed. Holiday sleeping can be tricky with late-night events, family gatherings, and disrupted routines. However, waking up feeling fresh and energized is achievable with a few expert-backed adjustments to your habits.

Here is how to make the most of your downtime and start every holiday morning on the right foot:

Master the Art of Holiday Sleeping

Holiday sleeping is not just about snoozing until noon. Instead, it is about quality, not just quantity. Stick to a consistent bedtime, even if the festivities tempt you to stay up late. Your body thrives on routine, and erratic sleeping hours confuse your internal clock.

Go to bed and wake up at roughly the same time each day. This simple habit sets you up for restorative sleep. It will help you make sure you feel recharged when morning rolls around.

Unplug Before Bed

Screen time is the ultimate sleep thief. Scrolling through social media or binge-watching holiday movies might seem harmless, but the blue light from screens suppresses melatonin – the hormone that helps you sleep.

Experts recommend turning off devices at least an hour before bed.

Holiday sleeping — Olly / Pexels / Swap your phone for a book, calming music, or a relaxing holiday journal to unwind.

Nighttime rituals are powerful. Taking a warm bath, meditating, or sipping herbal tea signals your body to relax. These activities calm your mind and prepare it for rest. Holiday sleeping becomes more enjoyable when you ease into it without distractions or overstimulation.

Watch What You Eat and Drink

Overindulging during the holidays is tempting, but heavy meals and late-night snacks can mess with your sleep. Eating rich, fatty foods close to bedtime forces your body to work overtime to digest, disrupting restful sleep. Opt for lighter dinners and limit spicy or greasy options that can lead to discomfort.

Holiday cocktails may be festive, but they are no friend to your sleep cycle. While alcohol might make you feel drowsy, it reduces the quality of your sleep by interrupting REM cycles.

Stick to moderation and hydrate well throughout the evening. This helps balance the effects of festive treats and keeps your body ready for better holiday sleeping.

Embrace Morning Sunshine

Your morning sets the tone for the day, especially during holidays. Sunlight acts as a natural wake-up call, regulating your body’s internal clock and boosting your mood.

Holiday sleeping — Gustavo / Pexels / As soon as you wake up, let natural light flood your room or step outside for a few minutes.

Ideally, pair sunlight with gentle morning stretches or a short walk. Physical activity wakes up your muscles and gets your blood flowing, helping shake off grogginess.

Don’t Overpack Your Schedule

Holidays often come with packed agendas, but saying “yes” to everything can leave you drained. Overcommitment leads to stress, late nights, and poor-quality holiday sleeping. Prioritize the events and activities that matter most to you, and don’t be afraid to decline invitations.

Remember, less is often more when it comes to making meaningful holiday memories.

Manage Holiday Stress Like a Pro

Stress is the silent sleep saboteur, and holidays are often full of it. Whether it’s family dynamics, travel plans, or gift shopping, stress can creep in and disrupt your sleep. Practice mindfulness to stay grounded. Breathing exercises or guided meditations can help calm your racing mind before bed, promoting better holiday sleeping.

Setting realistic expectations is key. Everything doesn’t have to be perfect, and that is okay. Focus on what truly matters and let go of unnecessary worries. A relaxed mind is the foundation for restful sleep and joyful mornings.