Beat post holiday FATIGUE

Struggling to move past holiday brain? Dr Jana Pittman reveals how to get back in the groove!

- Dr Jana Pittman

Have you ever returned from a holiday expecting to feel bouncy and refreshed, only to start getting overwhelmed again almost straight away? Dr Jana Pittman says that it’s pretty common for people to feel out of step after they’ve taken a break from school, work or their regular routine.

“Research from Australian Bananas has found that over a quarter of the nation has low energy and need to force themselves to get back into the swing of things,” she explains. “Before a long break our bodies are often on autopilot – for example, getting up at the same time for work, eating meals around similar times and heading to bed at reasonable hours. The long break gives us time to relax and not be tied to a schedule which we all love.”

However, Dr Pittman says there are strategies you can use to ease back into powerhouse mode. And with a busy medical career and six kids (including one-year-old twins!), the former Olympian has definitely learned a thing or two about the importance of time management.

“Regardless of the length of time you’ve taken out of your routine, you can quickly get back on track in a few steps, including eating a nutritious diet,” she says. “Another key is to get started early and start the routine a week before you actually have to, that way you sort of ease into it.”

IS IT NORMAL TO FEEL TIRED AFTER HOLIDAY?