With Christmas right around the corner, we’re going to dive into something we all experience—the exhilarating anticipation leading up to Christmas Day, followed by a noticeable post-Christmas crash. Sound familiar? Let's explore why this happens, what it means for us emotionally and spiritually, and share strategies to handle the exhaustion that can come after the celebrations.
Why the Anticipation of Christmas is So Exciting
The Christmas season evokes cherished memories, traditions, and a sense of belonging. Traditions and nostalgia of decorating the tree while listening to holiday music can transport you back to simpler, joyful moments in childhood.
The build-up is filled with joy, excitement, and even a little bit of magic. This time of year stirs up anticipation because of the expectation of something wonderful. We decorate our homes, shop for gifts, plan family gatherings, and relish in holiday traditions. There’s an undeniable sense of excitement because we’re expecting something special—whether it’s the joy of family time, the joy of giving, or simply the fun of the festivities.
I also believe there’s something about being connected with the world as a whole because there’s no other event that the majority of humanity celebrates together. There’s an undeniable unity that is unmatched by any other celebration across the world.
From a psychological perspective, anticipation activates the brain’s reward centers. It’s like the excitement we feel before going on a vacation or seeing an old friend—it’s the expectation of joy that triggers our happiness receptors. Counting down the days with an advent calendar creates a dopamine boost, making every day feel special.
In Proverbs 13:12 it says, 'Hope deferred makes the heart sick, but a longing fulfilled is a tree of life.'
The anticipation of Christmas can be a form of hope- hope that things will slow down, that there will be peace, and that the joy of the season will be fulfilling.
The Christmas Day Crash
But once Christmas Day arrives and the presents are unwrapped, the food has been eaten, and the festivities come to a close, many of us feel a sense of emotional crash. This is a common experience after the high of anticipation. The contrast between the excitement of Christmas Eve and the post-holiday quiet can leave us feeling drained and even a little empty.
Physiological Explanation:
On a physiological level, our bodies release a lot of ‘feel-good’ chemicals during the holiday season—dopamine and endorphins. But when the excitement stops, those levels drop, which can lead to feelings of fatigue, sadness, or even a mild sense of loss.
Emotional and Spiritual Impact:
Beyond the physical toll, there's also a sense of spiritual depletion. Christmas, as joyful and meaningful as it is, can sometimes create a void once the focus shifts from the celebrations back to ordinary life. It’s easy to feel spiritually drained after the flurry of excitement.
Scripture to Reflect On:
In Psalm 23:1, 'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.' This verse can remind us that even after the excitement of the season is over, the true peace and fulfillment we seek can only be found in God's presence, not in the fleeting joys of the world.
Strategies to Handle the Christmas Post-Event Letdown
Build in Time for Rest: The first strategy is simple—schedule time to rest. If you’re feeling exhausted after all the holiday excitement, don't feel guilty about taking some quiet time for yourself. Whether it’s a walk, a good book, or a nap, allow your body and mind to recharge. The combination of busy schedules, high energy output, and emotional investment takes a toll.
Pro-Tip: Take a walk outdoors after all the Christmas celebrations. The fresh air and the change of environment can help you reset. Matthew 11:28 says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This verse reminds us to lean on God for peace when we’re overwhelmed.
Simplify Expectations: Focus on connection, not perfection. Instead of stressing over an elaborate meal, enjoy a potluck-style dinner with loved ones. The joy of giving, hosting, and creating the “perfect” day can lead to over-exertion and after spending weeks shopping, cooking, and decorating, the day itself can feel like a blur. Once the presents are unwrapped and the feast is eaten, the sudden stillness can feel anticlimactic.
Pro-tip: Keep the focus on Christ’s love and less on material or aesthetic details.
Shift Focus to Gratitude: Instead of focusing on what’s over, refocus your energy on gratitude. Reflect on the blessings of the season. What went well? What are you thankful for? This shift can help you transition from post-holiday sadness to a sense of fulfillment.
Pro-Tip: Reflect on scripture: 'Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.' – 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Take a moment to pause and give thanks for what you have rather than what is now past.
Revisit the Deeper Meaning of Christmas: Remember that Christmas is not just about presents and parties, but about celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. Revisit the spiritual meaning of the season to regain perspective and peace.
Pro-Tip: Take time to read the nativity story in the Bible or listen to Christmas carols that focus on Christ’s birth. This can center your heart after all the commercial excitement.
Pace Yourself Throughout the Season: Spread out traditions and celebrations to savor the joy without overloading the actual day. Host a small gathering before Christmas or plan something fun for the week after to extend the holiday spirit.
Pro-tip: Reserve Christmas Day for quiet, meaningful moments, like reading the story of Christ’s birth (Luke 2:1–20).
Create New Traditions: One of the best ways to avoid the crash is by starting new traditions that extend into the New Year. Whether it’s a family activity, a personal goal, or a service project, having something to look forward to can keep your spirits up.
Reader Challenge:
After the excitement of Christmas is over, take time to reflect on three things you’re grateful for and share this with someone in your life.
Celebrate Christ intentionally by reading a scripture or attending a worship service during Advent.
Plan something joyful for the week after Christmas to ease the post-holiday lull.
Remember, the Christmas season is a beautiful time of celebration, but it's also an opportunity for spiritual growth, reflection, and peace. If you feel exhausted after the holidays, know that you're not alone, and there are practical steps you can take to recover and reset. Thanks for being with me and I pray that you experience true peace and rest this Christmas season. Until next time, be blessed!
Comments