17.01.25

From vacation to everyday life: 6 tips & tricks for a smooth transition

After a well-deserved break and time away from the rigors of everyday life, the transition from vacation to everyday life can seem overwhelming. But with a little preparation and attention to your body and mind, you can get through this transition more smoothly.

Ivar Dagsson
Ivar Dagsson

Co-founder & CEO. Authorized Osteopath D.O.M.R.O.DK., authorized physiotherapist, and INS therapist

From vacation to everyday life: 6 tips & tricks for a smooth transition

Whether you’ve traveled to distant shores or had a relaxing vacation at home, returning to your daily routine can feel like a challenge. Start by setting an agenda, planning your week, and setting realistic expectations for yourself so you don’t get overwhelmed.

Sports injuries, build your tolerance

While some may have tried new sports during the holidays, others may have chosen to relax completely. It is important to remember to reintegrate exercise gradually. Your muscles and joints may need time to adapt, so start gently and increase the intensity gradually.

Start with low-intensity workouts and focus on basic stretching exercises to prepare your body. For example, if you’re a runner, you can start with a brisk walk or light jog instead of jumping straight into your usual running routine. Or if you’re a strength-trainer, start with lighter weights and gradually work your way up.

Make sure to listen to your body. If you feel any discomfort or pain, give yourself time to rest and recover.

The goal is a healthy and injury-free return to your training routine, where you can increase the intensity over time and get back to your peak level, without compromising your health.

Stomach problems due to new food

Traveling to exotic destinations or simply changing your diet while on vacation can be a delight for your taste buds, but it can also pose challenges for your digestive system. When we introduce new foods or radically change our eating habits, our stomachs can have a hard time adjusting, resulting in anything from mild discomfort to more serious digestive issues.

The most common symptoms you may experience after eating unfamiliar foods include bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation. These symptoms can come from a variety of sources; it could be bacteria in the food that our system is not used to, or perhaps certain ingredients that our stomach finds difficult to digest.

Start with light meals and try to avoid too much spicy and processed food. You may consider supplementing with lactic acid bacteria for a short period of time.

Sedentary work

After being active and constantly moving during the holidays, sedentary work can be a big transition.

Remember to take small breaks every hour, stretch, get up from your desk and go for a walk. These little things can work wonders when we’re talking about long work days. Your back and neck will thank you for it.

Returning to a sedentary work life after an active vacation can be an adjustment, but with a little awareness and proactivity, you can minimize discomfort and ensure you maintain an element of physical activity in your daily routine.

 

The good routines, get back to them

The holidays are a wonderful time to break out of the usual routine and enjoy a freer approach to life.

But sometimes this freedom means we put our healthy habits on the shelf, whether consciously or unconsciously.

However, when we return to the demands of everyday life, it can feel like a challenge to resume the habits that used to bring us so much peace, balance, and joy.

Start slowly. Get the little things under control first. Make sure you get off to a good start in the morning. Plan a little more at the beginning than you usually do. It’s the little things that count. Remember to take breaks. 5 minutes of breathing exercises a few times during the day can make a big difference.

Weather changes, inflammation and fatigue

As the seasons change, many of us feel not only a shift in the weather, but also in our health and well-being. Falling temperatures can bring discomforts like sinusitis, and the shorter days can trigger feelings of fatigue. Fortunately, there are a few tips you can follow to prepare your body and mind for these changes.

  • Clothing Choice: As the saying goes, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing.” Dress warmly and especially protect your hands and feet.
  • Healthy diet: As the weather changes, cravings for heavier foods may increase. Ensure a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains for a strong immune system.
  • Vitamin boost: Consider vitamin supplements such as C and D to strengthen the immune system, especially during the dark months.
  • Hydration: Despite the colder weather, hydration should be a priority. Drink plenty of fluids and consider hot drinks, such as herbal teas.
  • Listen to your body: If you feel tired, accept it and consider a short nap or an earlier bedtime.
  • Prevention: Have you had sinusitis before? Consider a preventive consultation with your doctor or osteopath.

Be on the lookout, get appointments in the fall

When everyday life returns after a wonderful vacation, it’s important to be prepared. Planning is a key part of this preparation. Having a structured calendar not only helps you feel organized, but also helps you avoid stress and last-minute rushing.

As autumn approaches, it’s wise to think ahead. Whether it’s routine health check-ups, osteopathic treatments or social events, a well-planned calendar can be a lifesaver.

At Aarhus Osteopathy we often experience a busy period in the autumn. Therefore it is a good idea to book your appointments well in advance to ensure that you get the time and treatment you want. This will give you peace of mind knowing that you have taken care of your health and well-being in the coming months.

Come back strong from your vacation with these tips and remember to take good care of yourself, no matter what season it is.

From vacation to everyday life: 6 tips & tricks for a smooth transition

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